Sculpture II

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%

A= Mastery of the course content at the highest level of attainment that can reasonably be expected of students at a given stage of development. The A Grade states that the student has gone beyond expectations and shown outstanding promise in every aspect of the discipline through outstanding work in terms of both quantity and quality, from artwork concepts, through execution and critique. Attention to the detail in the work in terms of choices of materials, structure, imagery, and form are thorough. A level students will often research broadly and build on past experience to collect or produce elements needed to realize their goals. A-level students routinely apply skills and concepts in unique and original ways. A-level students always come to class prepared to work and participate fully in class discussions and are able to offer relevant comments about their own works and the work of their peers. Self-evaluations are insightful, thorough and indicate a clear understanding of evaluations with a plan to follow through. Revision is self-initiated if deficiencies are perceived. A-level students are always prepared with the materials needed for class, having though ahead and anticipated needs prior to class. Adherence to the class attendance policy is constant.

B= Strong performance demonstrating a high level of attainment for a student at a given stage of development. The B grade means that the student has shown solid promise in every aspect of the discipline. B level students work hard. Students at this level will have good craft, and solid ideas. Sometimes ideas are verbally interesting, but skills are still developing. B level students are prepared for class most of the time, stay on task, and participate regularly. Research necessary to produce work is sufficient, but not necessarily unusual. Work proceeds at a steady pace, allowing for faculty interaction in timely ways. Self-evaluations reveal an understanding of relevant issues. Some revisions are made if suggested. Subsequent work takes into consideration prior criticisms and comments. No attendance problems are recorded for this student.

C= a totally acceptable performance demonstrating an adequate level of attainment for a student at a given stage of development. The C grade states that, while not yet showing unusual promise, the student may continue to study in this discipline with reasonable intellectual development. C level students complete all of the work for the class. Details and technical skills are developing. Ideas are sufficient. Choices of form, material, and imagery are often expedient (i.e. following basic/literal assignment requirements without further individual interpretation or application of broader visual principles.). C students spend sufficient time in class but no time outside of the class to complete work. C students may have trouble with time management. Work is generally completed on time but may be done close to the due date without appropriate faculty consultation. C students rarely revise work, Excessive absences can sometimes account or contribute to the C grade.

D= A marginal performance in the required exercises demonstrating a minimal passing level of attainment for a student at a given stage of development. The D grade states that the student has given no evidence of prospective growth in the discipline. An accumulation of D grades should mean that the student would be well advised not to continue in the academic field. D students are usually not prepared. Work may be completed but it is generally late. Partial completion of assignments is typical, and craft is sloppy. D students have difficulty articulating the pros and cons of their work or that of others in critique. Attendance is frequently inconsistent, and students are often late without presenting an excuse. D students have a habit of missing class critique dates.

F= For whatever reasons, an unacceptable performance. The F grade indicates that the student’s performance in the required assignments has revealed almost no understanding of the course’s content and that remediation is needed. Work is late or non-existent. The student has too many absences, has no initiative, and does not attempt to acquire necessary skill.

Grading scale

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:

Attendance/participation is not a graded component included in the student's final grade for this course.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

• Blank, unlined sketchbook (at least 8” x 11”), scissors and pencil/pens

• Set of 3 pliers, such as the Stanley 3-Piece Plier set (Slip Joint Pliers, Needle Nose Pliers and Cutting Pliers)

• Pair of sturdy work gloves in your size

• Screws or bolts in the correct size for wood projects as needed

• Painting or patinating materials if applicable

• X-acto knives and cutting mats for cardboard cutting

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

• Wood, metal, and additional materials to complete projects (not provided by art department)