Sculpture I

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

In this course, students will reflect on and explore how sculpture occupies space and time. We will gain a deeper understanding on the relational nature of form and objects, and the ways they interact with the physical, symbolic, and temporal environment they exist in. We will also learn to consider our materials; their provenance, their cultural symbolism, social significance, and their intrinsic physical properties so that we can view them under a different light, as embodying a non-human subjectivity. Materials will be understood as active agents in the creative process and not just inert matter bending to our will. Concepts such as friction, resistance and cooperation will be introduced when speaking about materials. Sculptures, and by extension art in general, will reveal itself as living and breading systems with blurry and porous boundaries. Sculpture 1 and 2 is a sequence of classes in which students explore contemporary sculpture from the perspective of concept, form, materials, scale, and audience interaction. As students move through various assignments, they will demonstrate both technical competence and learn to successfully embody complex ideas. We will also discuss different American and international contemporary artists and how they are expanding the field of sculpture by introducing new technologies, materials, and collaborations.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure	Percentage/Points
Sculptures (innovation, craft, concept, technical proficiency, photographic documentation submitted via canvas)	50%
Writing and speaking (includes individual presentations and group discussion)	10%
Formal presentation and exhibition of work during critiques	10%
Final PDF Portfolio (artwork documentation due via Canvas)	20%

Grading Scale and Criteria:

Percentage	Letter Grade
93-100	A
90-92	A-
87-89	B+
83-86	B
80-82	B-
77-79	C+
73-76	C
70-72	C-
60-69	D
59	F

Attendance/Participation:

Adherence to the class attendance policy is constant for A-level students. B level students are prepared for class most of the time, stay on task, and participate regularly. C students spend sufficient time in class but no time outside of the class to complete work and may have trouble with time management. D students are usually not prepared, attendance is frequently inconsistent, and students are often late without presenting an excuse. Excessive absences can sometimes account or contribute to the C grade. D students have a habit of missing class critique dates. F students have too many absences.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

• A blank, unlined sketchbook (at least 8” x 11”), scissors and pencil/pens to each class.

• A set of 3 pliers, such as the Stanley 3-Piece Plier set which includes Slip Joint Pliers, Needle Nose Pliers and Cutting Pliers.

• A pair of sturdy work gloves in your size.

• Screws or bolts in the correct size for your project’s needs when working in wood.

• Materials for painting or patinating sculptures if applicable.

• X-acto knives and cutting mats for cutting cardboard for class models.

• Additional materials such as alginate, silicone, wooden 2x4’s, plaster/hydrocal, hardware cloth/chicken wire, mechanical fasteners, and concrete as needed depending on project scale.

• Wood, metal, and additional materials to complete projects not provided by the art department.

It is strongly suggested that students acquire some basic tools to enable them to work independently. Jerry’s Art Supplies, located at 538 Farragut Street in Greensboro, is the only local art supply store that carries a substantial range of art tools and materials. Supplies can also be purchased on Amazon, or at Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, and Walmart. Harbor Freight is the hardware store to shop for inexpensive hand tools. Reconsidered Goods is a great source for found objects and textiles. The Goodwill at 1235 S Eugene St, Greensboro, NC 27406 also sells clothing by the pound and is an extremely cheap source for used textiles.