Course Description: This is a studio course designed to provide the beginning sculpture student with a foundation in sculptural processes and theories that contribute to the current field of sculpture with an emphasis on social practice, viewer participation, and broad inclusion. In this class we will work to define a field of sculpture and then survey its aspects, including process, material, ethics, historical contributions, the current zeitgeist (look it up, it will be on the quiz), and professional practices. Students will create elementary and advanced spatial constructions using a variety of tools, materials, and methods as the above topics are explored. Sculptural history will focus on significant, current, and cross-disciplinary practice. Because of our curricular commitment to the regional community, this course is also designated as a Service Learning course.

Objectives: In this course you will define and survey the field, receive hands-on experience, and engage community. Regarding the first area (define/survey), you will become familiar with sculptural movements, critical aesthetic thinking, makers, and impetus for making and exhibiting sculpture. You will learn about art support systems, exhibition mechanics, and career sustainability. Also, the role of sculpture as part of material and social culture will be covered regarding criticism, theory, and analysis. Regarding hands-on experience, the class focuses on methods of making, techniques of fabrication, materials, ethical responsibility and integrity, safety, and professional method. Regarding community engagement and service, you will be creating and participating in social outreach projects for the local and regional community.

Course Goals:

1. Develop and encourage individual creative interests and conceptual skills by focusing on intelligence type
2. Explore the definition of “sculpture” and the many forms it takes in art, craft, and design
3. Learn to identify the inherent meaning present in materials
4. Learn strategies for social inclusion and participation with art with a focus on marginalized and under-represented communities
5. Develop the ability to articulate responsibly both regarding the making as well as the analysis of sculpture
6. Develop the ability to understand conceptual sculpture
7. Learn to appreciate crafted sculpture through craft experience
8. Acquire skills in a variety of materials and techniques in the four methods of making
9. Develop safe studio practices and learn to create a culture of safety
10. Enhance self-esteem in the creative process and experience creative expression, enjoyment & achievement
11. Learn arange of historical/contemporary perspectives in sculpture
12. Develop visual literacy and work as a creative, innovative, resourceful individual.