Paul Noble, Public Toilet 1999 (8 foot x 8 foot, 4 inches)

Basic Drawing I 1401*03*Professor Nathan Thomas Wilson Class hours: Wednesday 5-7:50pwilsonn@emmanuel.edu Office hours: Wednesday 3-5p

& by appointment

“The process of drawing is, before all else, the process of putting the visual intelligence into action, the very mechanics of visual thought. Unlike painting and sculpture it is the process by which the artist makes clear to himself, and not to the spectator, what he is doing. It is a soliloquy before it becomes communication. (Michael Ayerton)

“Drawing is the probity of art. To draw does not mean simply to reproduce contours; drawing does not consist merely of line: drawing is also expression, the inner form, the plane, modeling. See what remains after that.” (Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres)

Drawing is not what one sees but what one can make others see." (Edgar Degas)

This course is designed to develop one's perceptual awareness through drawing the observed world. Working from simplest to the most complex forms, you will become proficient observers, who are able to identify, and communicate the spatial relationships you observe. In short a topographer of life. Specific assignments will utilize the formal properties and the expressive limits of line, value, shape, form, structure, and spatial relationships using a variety of drafting materials. Remote drawing sessions at the MFA will held to learn directly from some of the greatest observational draftsmen ever to put pencil to paper.

Upon completion of the course, you will have demonstrated your ability to:- Analyze form and identify spatial relationships of form.- Employ line and value to expressively translate observed forms into two-dimensions.- Create shape and volume through mark and tone.- Demonstrate the ability to compose images utilizing formal elements.- Use a variety of mark-making materials effectively.- Create both contour and gesture drawings from the model.- Articulate, verbally and visually, a clear understanding of drawing in relation to the history of art.- Expand problem-solving skills through drawing assessment and critique.

**This syllabus is subject to change at anytime at the discretion of the professor**

HOMEWORKAssignments will be given in written form and will be available on EClearn. Class and homework projects are progressive, building on formal elements and increased observational skills of the previous projects.

It is expected that assignments be completed on time. Failure to submit work on the assigned date will result in a lower grade. Students may resubmit two assignments per semester for reevaluation of the grade received. This does not, however, guarantee that the grade will be changed – their needs to be a significant improvement in the resubmitted piece for the grade to be changed. You may not resubmit your Midterm or Final projects. Do not leave your assignments until the last minute – the development of your skills requires a great investment of time. Each assignment has clear objectives and these objectives will be reiterated as the assignments are presented throughout the semester.In addition to in-class and homework assignments, students are required to maintain a sketchbook throughout the semester.

Critique times for the homework assignments and class work are listed on the syllabus. These critiques are an integral part of the course. Students are expected to participate in daily discussions, use the terminology introduced correctly, and be able to reference Master artist’s work in relation to the work being critiqued. It is expected that you spend 9 hours on your homework weekly, at a minimum. You will be required to bring your drawings for critique. There should to be a marked change in your drawings, reflecting the time spent on your homework as well as your commitment to the class. Class critiques are intended to help you improve your work and clarify formal and expressive elements. Participation in the critiques is important and will be reflected in your final grade. All work should be hung, in a well-organized manner, by the start of class on the day that the work is due. Failure to do so will not only be a distraction and waste valuable class time for all class members, but it will result in a lower grade.

WRITTEN FORMAL RESPONSES: Art, Artist Lectures and Art EventsYou are expected to write responses to 2 different artworks and review 1 art event for this course. Each response should be approximately 500 words. Your response must also include an image of the event/artwork from your phone camera. This image must be submitted with your written document. These responses will count as a percentage of your final grade. Email your completed responses and images to me. The written responses must be saved as a .doc file and

the images as .jpegs. Save your file in the following convention: “YourFullName_ResponseNumber.doc”.

One of your three responses should feature the work of an ECAR or Gallery 5 artist and lecture. Your remaining responses may result from visits to local museums, credible galleries and or artist run spaces. The artwork must be viewed in person. Artwork found on the internet or other social media venues are not acceptable for this assignment, you must see and document the artwork in-person. Undergraduate student artwork or artwork made by your friends should not be used for these assignments. The responses must be taken from 3 separate venues.

IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THAT YOU READ BARNET’S ‘A SHORT GUIDE TO WRITING ABOUT ART’ (LINK PROVIDED BELOW) BEFORE BEGINNING YOUR FORMAL RESPONSES.https://macaulay.cuny.edu/eportfolios/2011klich902/files/2011/09/Barnet.pdf(The book is also available in its entirety at the Cardinal Cushing Library)

ECAR(Emmanuel College Artist Residency program) and Gallery 5The Art Department sponsors a number of art programs and events from ECAR to Gallery 5 exhibitions. Look for emails or posters on campus announcing these events. I will pass along announcements of these events as I receive them.

SKETCHBOOKStudents are expected to keep a sketchbook and add to it daily. Your sketchbook is a tool used to develop one’s interests into a clear and poignant artistic voice. A consistent sketchbook practice is the foundation of any strong artistic practice. Your sketchbook is also a record of your artistic growth. Fill your sketchbook with wild ideas, hone your mastery of the various techniques and mediums used in class, explore, experiment, and plan projects without any fear of criticism. Write honesty about your struggles, likes, and dislikes, both in, and outside of class. You will be expected to work in your sketchbook outside of class, and you are required to bring it to each class. You will also be expected to show it to me regularly, during class and at individual critiques. So, please be prepared to share it with me. Remember, your sketchbook is a judgment free zone. You sketchbook will be assessed privately, on the quantity and consistency of sketchbook entries, as well as the level of artistic growth, and the experimentation or risks taken within its sacred pages. There are no wrong entries in your sketchbook; only blank pages will be met with criticism.

You are expected to work regularly in your sketchbook, 10-20 minutes a day constitutes an acceptable sketchbook practice. At the end of the semester, your completed sketchbook will be assessed and represent 10% of your grade.

Some examples of artists’ sketchbooks can be found at the following websites: https://archive.org/details/drawingsofleonar00leonuoft

www.arthousecoop.com/ sketchbookproject /

http://www.exhibit905.info/throughthesketchbook

Michelangelo’s sketchbook Dan Elden’s Sketchbook 1997

Clara Lieu undergraduate sketchbook

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Paul Klee’s drawing exercises:http://ing.univaq.it/continenza/Corso%20di%20Disegno%20dell'Architettura%202/TESTI%20D'AUTORE/Paul-klee-Pedagogical-Sketchbook.pdfBarnet’s ‘A Short Guide to Writing About Art’https://macaulay.cuny.edu/eportfolios/2011klich902/files/2011/09/Barnet.pdf

EVALUATION AND GRADING:Each student will be evaluated on their progress and commitment to the class. It is important to note that your work is judged on the basis of its own merits. You are expected to spend at least 9 hours on your homework weekly. During critiques, students are expected to critique both their own work and the work of their peers. Reviews will be held at Midterm and at the end of the semester. You must show respect for your work. Drawings submitted rolled, crumpled, or ripped convey a lack of interest and will not be accepted. All work must be saved in your portfolio for midterms and final reviews.

Factors, which are considered in evaluating your work, are as follows: Clarity of focus Demonstration of in-depth and prolonged observation of the form relating to the assignment Consistent use of the medium Your ability to articulate, both visually and verbally, what is required from the assignment Your ability to reference and articulate the work of Master artists in relation to your work Your ability to follow directions Your willingness to take risks and make changes to your work Your willingness to question preconceived notions of what a drawing should “look like” Your participation in all class critiques A clean and considered presentation of your drawings A neat and organized Final and Mid-term Portfolio that includes all projects and sketches Digital Portfolio submitted (4 images) Your ability to work productively both inside and outside the classroom Satisfactory completion of writing assignments Your progression as a visual thinker clearly documented in your sketchbook All deadlines met

Grade evaluation will be determined through: Final review 15% Midterm review 10% Sketchbook 5% In-class projects 30% Homework projects 35% Formal Written Responses 5%

ATTENDANCEThis class meets once a week. Each class you will be expected to sign a posted attendance sheet. Failure to do so will result in an absence. Two absences, regardless of the reason, will result in a single letter grade deduction. Three absences is equivalent to missing one quarter of the semester and will result in failure of the course. This is Department policy.

*All students must upload a recognizable photo of their face to ECLearn by the second week of class.

It is essential that you are not late for class. I will not repeat the lecture or assignment for you if you are late; so plan accordingly. If you are chronically late, it will be counted as an absence. Points will be deducted from your final grade if you are late.

Academic Integrity Policy"Cheating and plagiarism are very serious offenses and have severe consequences. Emmanuel College’s definitions for cheating and plagiarism are specifically outlined in the Academic Integrity Policy found in your Student Handbook and on our website at http://www.emmanuel.edu/academics/academic_resources/academic_integrity_policy.html . Incidents of cheating and plagiarism will result in the following:  (a) failure of the assignment or test, (b) notification of your Academic Advisor, and (c) notification of the Academic Dean.  If the faculty member deems the offense serious enough, she or he may also fail you for the entire course. Cheating and plagiarism not only hurt your own learning experience, but they are also disrespectful to your fellow classmates who did complete their own work."

Lynette Yiadom-Boakye First Flight Series 2015

Emmanuel College Credit Hour Statement"Students are expected to devote a minimum 12 hours of study for each 4-credit course per week over the course of a traditional semester. A minimum of three of these hours is spent in class. (An hour may be defined as 50 minutes for the purposes of this definition.) Consequently, faculty are expected to assign out-of-class work that will require a typical student to send a minimum of an additional nine hours of effort per week on average outside of class." 

Disability“If you are a student with a documented disability, who may require accommodation in this course, please register with the Disabilities Coordinator, (Lower level of the Cardinal Cushing Library, Room 04R), phone: 617-935-9923, TTD: 617-935-9755.

Class EtiquetteAnswering cell phones, using earphones, and text messaging during class is rude, disrespectful and disruptive to your peers and to me. Texting during critiques is inexcusable. Turn your cell phones off upon entering class. Failure to do so will result in a lower participation grade and you will be asked to leave the class. This will count as an absence and thus lower your grade.

You may use you device for music when there are no lectures or demonstrations as approved by the professor.

Department Safety ManualThe Art Department has a Safety Manual that details safe use of studios. It is posted in each studio as well as on EClearn for each class. Safe studio practices and permissions will be covered in class. Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions regarding safety and permissions.

EMAILI will do my best to respond to student emails in 1-2 days, but there will be times when this will not be the case. Complete your assignments as early as possible if you expect to get feedback on your projects. Do not rely on receiving a response if you email me the day before a project is due. Outside of my office hours, I am available to review assignments before they are due, if you have questions. Feel free to email me (preferred), or text me images of your work in progress along with your questions. I can be reached at wilsonn@emmanel.edu or (315) 729 8348.

Richard Diebenkorn California Landscape

Raymond Pettibon No Title (They Are Become)

Course Schedule Spring2017

Assignments are subject to change at the discretion of the professor.

Week 1 – Introduction to Basic Drawing IWednesday, January 18th

In Class lecture/discussion Introduction/syllabus Art supplies Drawing: Conceptual vs. Perceptual Studio Expectations Portfolios 36 x 50 inches Project I -Cross Contour Drawings – Establishing Planar Structure

Homework All students must upload a recognizable photo of their face to ECLearn by January 25th. All students must have read the syllabus and purchased any extra additional supplies by

January 25th. First part of contour drawing project completed and contours begun: Due Jan 25th Cross Contour Drawing: Due February 1st

Materials for next class vine charcoal, compressed charcoal, pencils, eraser, tape, (paper provided) purchase and bring sketchbook cross contour drawing in progress

Week 2 – Contour Drawings, Cross Contour Drawings, Blind Contour Drawing, and Continuous Contour DrawingsJanuary 25th

In Class - Cross Contour drawing Critique – drawing in progress Lecture: variations of contour drawing, blind, standard, continuous, and cross. Line Weight – building volume

Homework re-work cross planar/contour drawing – Due February 1st

Materials for next class vine charcoal, charcoal, eraser, pencils, tape (paper will be provided)

Week 3 – Complex Cross Contour DrawingsFebruary 1st

In Class – Introduction to Organizational Line drawing – measuring and making space

Critique – cross contour drawing lecture organizational line drawing Project 2 –Comopsition – organizational line drawings. Due :February 22nd

Homework Organizational line drawing in progress

Materials for next class vine charcoal, charcoal, eraser, tape (paper will be provided)

Week 4 & 5 – Organizing Space using lineFebruary 8th & 15th

In class – Organizational line drawings continued; introduction to value Critique – Project 2 in progress Composition – organizing space

Homework Organizational line drawing in progress – Due: February 22nd

Materials for next class vine charcoal, charcoal, eraser, tape (paper will be provided)

Reminder – keep working in your sketchbook, attend art events and written responses

Week 6 & 8 – Value/tone – exploring light and visual perspectiveFebruary 22nd & March 15th

In class – Using Value Critique – Project 2 – Due Value lecture/still life composition or self-portrait (TBA) Box drawings – using value/understanding visual perspective Sign up for Midterm review slots Project 3 - Still life Composition Due: March 1st

Homework Still life Composition in progress

Materials for next class Completed Project 3, Portfolio with all projects and in class work, sketchbooks,

any written reviews, any work done for class that was not shown in class. This includes, sketches for projects, abandoned attempts at drawings, or any other drawings or project planning done during the semester.

Week 7 March 1st *** Midterm Reviews***

Come for your review time only. Arrive early with all materials and have all completed works hung neatly and ready to review at start of your crit time.If you miss your crit time there is no make up time.

Materials for next class sketchbook, pencil, eraser, pencil sharpener sketchbook, pencil, eraser, pencil

(No class March 8th, Spring Break)

Week 8 – MFA – drawing from Greek and Roman SculptureMarch 15th

In class – MFA visit Critique – Project 3 Due MFA - Greek and Roman galleries

Homework

Project 4: 1&2. Giacometti: planar structure – tracing Due: March 22ndMaterials for next class

oil sticks, conte crayons, vine charcoal, charcoal, tape (paper will be provided)

Week 9 - Drawing from the figureMarch 22nd – April 5th

In class – Gesture, planar structure, and expression in the human figure Part 2- project 4 – large scale Giacometti drawing Lecture on figure drawing Final Project presented – Due December 8 Model

Homework Large scale Giacometti drawing, Due: November 3

Materials for next class oil sticks, conte crayons, vine charcoal, charcoal, tape (paper will be provided)

Weeks 10, 11 & 12 – Drawing the Human form March 29th, April 5th & 12th

In class discussion of final project model exploration of drawing materials

Homework Research for Final Project – sketches – April 12th Research for Final Project – in progress – Due April 26

Materials for each class oil sticks, conte crayons, vine charcoal, charcoal, tape (paper will be provided)

Week 13 – Portfolio DayApril 19th

In class Critique of Final Project in Process organize all class drawings work on Final Project

Homework organize portfolio – both class and homework in order – make sure portfolio is

large enough to house your work - Rolled drawings will not be accepted complete final project

Week 14 – Final Critique – All work dueApril 26thIn class

Each student will present their final project to the class All work due: Class and homework, sketchbooks, written responses

All portfolios MUST be picked up by 5pm on May 3rd. We do not store portfolios over the break. Any work left over the break will be discarded no exceptions.

SUPPLIESYour lab fee pays for a “kit”. This includes, charcoal, erasers, pencils, conte crayons, acrylic paint, 18x24” sketch pad and Stonehenge paper (for class and homework assignments). You are expected to purchase replacement materials when you run out of the materials in your initial kit. You will be expected to purchase some additional materials not included in your “kit”. Do not show up to class without your supplies. Failure to do so will result in a lower grade.

You are also required to purchase the following: masking tape (you will need this for every class), a sketchbook – no smaller than 11x14”- make sure that the paper can hold up to liquid

mediums and paste. a portfolio to house your drawings. (Blick has very cheap cardboard in large sizes) This

portfolio should be large – at least 36 x 50 “ Rolled drawings damage them and will not be accepted. Torn, folded, or tightly rolled drawings constitute a level of disrespect for your own work. Work presented in this way for the final portfolio review will not be accepted.

a size 8 and a size 12 brush for acrylic paints – long handled 16 inch (minimum) ruler 18X24 Newsprint pad “art bin” to carry supplies – any container is fine – just make sure that all your supplies fit. Brass paper fasteners (found at Office Depot and Staples) X-Acto knife and blades India ink black and 2-3 assorted sizes of bamboo brushes and a bamboo pen Ink stamp pad

Local art supply storesDick Blick Art Materials - Landmark Building - Brookline Ave and the Fenway - walking distance from Emmanuel (reduced prices and sales}Utrecht Linens - Corner of Huntington and Massachusetts Avenues - across from Symphony Hall. Symphony stop on the Green Line - E train (reduced prices and sales}Johnson Paints - Massachusetts end of Newbury Street - Auditorium stop on the Green line -

pricey - but does give a student discount (10%)

The Art Department studios are open and available for student use when classes are not in session, with the exception of the photo lab that will have times posted for those students taking Photography. Students are encouraged to work in the department, not in their dorms. Security locks the studios at 2 am Monday – Friday and at 11pm on Saturday and Sunday. If you use the department studios, please be respectful. Dispose of materials properly. Clean up after yourself.

Digital photos of work may be taken with a high quality phone camera, provided the artwork is well and evenly lit. There are Art Department students who can photograph your work in a digital format. Appointments must be made with these work- study students – times for their availability are posted in the Department.

Your student ID allows you library privileges at the Colleges of the Fenway. The Massachusetts College of Art has an excellent collection of Art and Design monographs, catalogs and digital resources. It is located in the Tower building on Huntington Avenue. Emmanuel and Wheelock Colleges also have good collections. There are no excuses for not finding material for your

assignments. Please do not use the Internet as your sole source of information. The art images are not always well reproduced on line and you will be expected to make detailed studies of Master images. You also will be expected to cite your sources.

Your ID also permits free access to the Museum of Fine Arts and Gardner Museum; visit often.

Course grading standardsThe method for grading includes the following criteria: evaluation of class work, homework, sketchbook, critiques, responses, individual progress and commitment, and attendance. Commitment to at least 9 hours of homework per week is necessary for individual progress and commitment. If the studio homework does demonstrait this commitment, it will be reflected in your grade. Attendance is also important. A missed class not only reflects a missed lecture but also valuable studio time. Critiques are an essential part of the class. When comments are made during a critique, it is up to the student to consider them and make changes if necessary. Learning to “see” takes a lot of practice. Not only are your eyes and intellect being developed, but also your facility with a given medium. Each assignment has a list of objectives upon which you will be graded. If you have questions regarding these objectives, please ask.

Art has its own formal language – light, space, scale, color, composition, line, shape,and texture are among the elements of this language. Knowledge of this language should be demonstrated in each piece. Homework assignments are given to specifically address these elements in both studio and homework assignments. Students should be able to articulate their understanding of formal elements verbally. This visual and verbal articulation is essential.

It is a gross misconception that art making is only about “inspiration” or “feelings”. Waiting for the “right” time to complete an assignment usually means leaving it to the last minute. Your drawing and subsequently your grade will reflect this.

Finally, making images is about taking risks in order to develop. If a student continues to repeat past successes, even though they may demonstrate a high degree of facility, the student should not expect an “A”.

The following are criteria for grading.“A” is a masterful piece of artwork. The work demonstrates a clear understanding of the formal problems presented as well as a high degree of facility in the chosen medium. Choice of subject matter and the composition should also show a high degree of personal vision and involvement. Presentation is impeccable and some risks were taken. This grade is not often given.

“B” is an above average piece of artwork. The work demonstrates an understanding of formal elements and a degree of facility. Although individual details may be accurately and beautifully rendered, the composition as a whole is not consistent. The student recognizes successful areas, but is unable to create a complete and masterful composition. Often, a student can learn from the experience and improve in the next assignment. Presentation is good.

“C” is a piece of artwork that is “average” or “adequate” in fulfilling the assignment. The piece may be a good start, but clearly needs more involvement and commitment to help it function as an interesting piece of observational drawing. The piece does not show a clear understanding of formal elements nor does it clearly convey the artist’s intentions. Additionally, the student’s facility needs improvement. Presentation is average.

“D” is a piece of artwork that is inadequate. It demonstrates a significant lack of understanding of the formal elements and intention of the assignment. Very little effort was put into the piece and risk and personal vision is absent. Presentation is poor.

“F” demonstrates a near total lack of understanding of the assignment and a lack of commitment. The work presented does not merit academic credit. Insufficient time was given to the project.

A “Zero” may be assigned if the student fails to submit an assignment altogether. This will drastically affect a student’s grade and should be avoided at all costs.