Art Course Descriptions

An introduction to the foundations of drawing. Students learn to draw from direct observation and work with a range of media. Techniques such as sighting for proportional relationships, contour line, and shading are explored, with emphasis on the elements of line, shape, value, texture, space, and principles of strong composition. Drawing from the human figure is also explored. Class hrs. 4. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

In this continuation of Drawing I, students work from direct observation and the live model and develop more sophisticated drawing skills and technique. Assignments develop a strong understanding of composition and an awareness of the relationship between form and content through representational, abstract, and non-objective themes. This intermediate-level course challenges the student to develop a personal vocabulary of visual expression in compositionally unified drawings. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 101 Drawing I.
 

An introduction to basic painting techniques. Students learn such painting fundamentals as mixing and blending colors, the use of value and tone, and glazing techniques. Aspects of color theory are explored. Assignments include works from direct observation, and the exploration of methods of creative self expression. Class hrs. 4. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

A continuation of Painting I, students continue to develop skills working on subjects from direct observation as well as non-objective designs. Creative assignments challenge students to explore meaning and expressive content through pictorial narrative and the expressive use of formal elements. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 103 Painting I.
 

An introduction to visual thinking in three-dimensional form and space. Students explore creative expression through the interaction of ideas, materials, and tools. A variety of media and techniques are explored, including relief and sculpture in-the-round. Emphasis on principles of three-dimensional composition and the expressive possibilities of forms in space. Class hrs. 4. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

In this continuation of Sculpture I, students further refine techniques while developing a more sophisticated understanding of composition in three-dimensions. Focus on the relationship between form and content through representational, abstract, and non-objective sculptural forms. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 105 Sculpture I.
 

A selective history of the art of ancient cultures from Prehistory to the European Gothic period. Students learn about major works of art from ancient historical periods, and acquire skills for analyzing and interpreting works of visual art. Includes museum visit. Class hrs. 3. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

A selective history of the western European tradition of art. Students gain familiarity with major artists, periods, and movements, and develop verbal, written, and conceptual skills enabling them to analyze and interpret works of art from the Renaissance to Modern periods. Includes museum visit. Class hrs. 3. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

Art History Survey III: Contemporary Art

A survey of contemporary artistic practices from 1945 to the present. Topics include Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism, Pop Art, environmental art, video, performance, and installation, as well as controversial issues such as government funding for the arts, censorship and free speech. Includes gallery or museum visit. Class hrs. 3. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

An introduction to printmaking that offers creative opportunities to students of varying skill levels. Students explore realistic, abstract, and non-objective themes using a variety of basic printmaking techniques such as line etching, aquatint, linoleum block, monotype, and collograph. Computers are available for image development. Class hrs. 4. No previous art or printmaking experience is necessary.
 

Students explore an expanded variety of printmaking techniques with an emphasis on color, design, and edition printing. This course challenges students to develop a personal vocabulary of expression and an awareness of the relationship between form and content. Presses include Charles Brand and American French Tool etching presses and a large format electric book press. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 110 Printmaking I or permission from Visual Arts Curriculum Chair.
 

This course is a basic introduction to the elements and principles of two-dimensional design. Students create projects using line, shape, value, texture, and color with a range of media, including the computer. Class critiques develop verbal communication skills and foster a facility with the language of art and design. All Visual Arts majors are encouraged to take this course during their first year. Class hrs. 4. No previous art experience is necessary.
 

An exploration of basic elements and principles of two-dimensional design with an emphasis on the digital environment. Topics include line, shape, color, texture and pattern, rhythm, and sequence. Projects cover static, time-based, and interactive elements. Software includes Adobe Illustrator and Flash. No previous experience necessary. Contact hrs: 4.
 

Digital Imaging I

An introduction to the computer as a tool for visual art, with a focus on gaining proficiency in Adobe Photoshop. Students learn photo retouching, painting, collage, and drawing techniques. Operation of scanners and printers, file management, and digital practices are covered. Includes discussion of digital art concepts and examples of digital media in contemporary art and design. No previous experience necessary. Contact hrs. 4.
 

This course provides a theoretical, technical, and aesthetic foundation in digital photography. Students learn technical camera usage and principles of design through assignments that focus on concepts of photographic composition. Lab exercises and demonstrations develop skills using digital software to modify and enhance images for digital output and presentation. The works of contemporary photographers will be presented as a means of familiarizing students with current trends and techniques, while expanding awareness of career opportunities in this rapidly evolving field. An additional lab fee is required. Class hrs. 3.

A practical guide to pursuing a career in the visual arts, this course explores professional and academic transfer opportunities for Visual Arts majors. Students gain hands-on experience with portfolio development, resume writing, and application preparation for career, internship, and exhibition opportunities. Class format includes discussions, group critiques, workshops, guest lectures, presentations, and field trips. All Visual Arts majors should take this course in their third semester. Class hrs. 1. Offered fall semester only.
 

Co-op courses are designed to promote career awareness through cooperative work experience in the specific field. Students integrate classroom theory with a monitored and supervised work experience. Periodic meetings with faculty advisor and maintenance of a portfolio and a journal are required. 225 work hours required. Prerequisites: approval of Curriculum or Department Chair; GPA of 2.5 or higher; 9 earned credits in curriculum-required courses and 3 credits in Composition & Literature I or equivalent for a total of 12 credits; and a major declared in this specific curriculum. For Art 132, Art 131 is required. Offered fall, spring, and summer semesters.
 

Introduction to black and white photography. Students learn to operate a 35 mm camera and to adjust settings for correct exposures. Lighting effects and the use of lenses and filters are also explored. Darkroom procedures include film development, contact printing, enlarging, and final presentation of matted print. Photographic assignments develop the student’s ability to achieve successful photographic compositions. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3.
 

A continuation of Photography I. Emphasis on refining skills of camera use, exposing and processing black & white film, and printing. Students gain an understanding of light as a fundamental photographic tool and work on developing personal style. Class sessions include lecture, demonstrations, darkroom work, and individual and group print reviews. Students are expected to spend additional time outside class to work on assignments and an individual project. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 133 Photography I.

* Photography courses require that students supply their own cameras and film. Those on a budget should call the Westchester Art Workshop in advance for a detailed list of supplies: 914-606-7500.

Designed for students with a solid grounding in the basic techniques of black and white printing photography. Students concentrate on refining darkroom techniques and create a cohesive body of work through a project of their choice. Classes include individual and group critiques, picture editing, sequencing, presentation, archival preservation, and historical and contemporary photographers. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 134 Photography II.
 

This course introduces basic color theory and the color darkroom. Darkroom techniques are emphasized for fine quality prints. Print mounting, finishing and an overview of contemporary and historical color photography is also covered. Prior experience with black and white photography is recommended. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3.
 

A continuation of Color Photography I, students learn to refine their darkroom techniques. Emphasis on personal style and individual expression. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 136 Color Photography I.
 

Designed for students with a solid grounding in the basic techniques of color printing. Students concentrate on refining darkroom techniques and creating a cohesive body of work through a project of their choice. Classes include individual and group critiques, picture editing, sequencing, presentation, archival preservation, and historical and contemporary photographers. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 137 Color Photography II. 
 

A survey and practical introduction to the history, craft, aesthetics, and psychology of portraiture in the photographic medium. Lectures, demonstrations, slide and video presentations, student exercises, and critiques impart theoretical and practical knowledge of many portrait styles, including formal and informal studio portraits, environmental, and documentary work. Students work with natural, tungsten, and electronic flash light sources and learn to make and use a variety of reflectors and other lighting accessories. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Offered fall semester.
 

An introduction to the basic concepts, theories, and approaches of art therapy. Students work on projects using a variety of art therapy techniques in order to understand the purpose of therapeutic methods as they apply to clinically defined populations. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3.
 

A continuation of Art Therapy I, this course facilitates a more in-depth study of therapeutic approaches, interventions, and materials, and an expanded exploration of different population groups. Classroom art experientials familiarize students with a broader range of therapeutic modalities, and individual and group projects provide an opportunity for students to implement and combine the skills they have learned. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 143 Art Therapy I.
 

An introduction to digital illustration using computer tools. This course includes the study of illustration as visual interpretation of words, concepts, and ideas. Students learn basic software skills while developing drawing abilities in a digital environment. Strategies for communicating content through pictorial narrative are also explored. No computer experience necessary. Software used: Adobe Illustrator. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

A continuation of Digital Illustration I, this course explores more advanced illustration projects with a greater emphasis on multiple design components and more sophisticated visual concepts. Students develop proficiency with digital drawing tools in the production of portfolio pieces for print and electronic media. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 145 Digital Illustration I.
 

A basic study of animation techniques that explores a variety of multimedia expressions. Though character designs and storyboards, students learn how to modify the dramatic structure of a story to produce a meaningful animation. Students produce a short narrative animation published in an interactive format either for the Internet or DVD. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

An advanced study of 2D animation that explores more sophisticated drawing and editing techniques. Students utilize traditional and animation software tools in a collaborative classroom setting. Other multimedia applications such as motion graphics, digital video, 3D animation and sound are explored. Students create a 2D animation “short” that demonstrates narrative and animation skills. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 147A Intro to 2D Animation.
 

An introduction to 3D animation focusing on the basic components of modeling, lighting and animation. Through character designs and storyboard development students create a short animation that demonstrates an understanding of story development and basic 3D animation principles. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Some previous computer experience necessary.
 

An advanced study of 3D computer animation that explores greater kinetic control and lighting techniques. Students develop a storyboard that challenges and enhances existing animation 3D skills. In a collaborative classroom setting other multimedia applications are explored. Students create a 3D animation “short” that demonstrates narration, design and motion skills. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 149A Intro to 3D Animation.
 

Students learn digital video technique through the study of historical and contemporary videos, and gain hands-on experience with digital movie making on the computer. Using industry standard video-editing programs such as Final Cut Pro, students learn how to record and edit videos, and develop an understanding of technical and narrative editing styles. Basic production techniques for film/broadcast, Internet and DVD are also explored, and students learn to work with imagery and audio components provided by Apple’s audio and QuickTime architecture. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

A continuation of Digital Video I, this course explores “real world” projects for professional industries and contemporary filmmakers, as well as experimental art videos. Students create broadcast quality projects using sophisticated editing tools, compositing tools, including motion transitions, type effects and a host of special effects capabilities. Students learn to manage complex projects and work with audio applications in conjunction with video. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite ART 151A Digital Video I.
 

Students learn to create multi-layer visual effects using Adobe After Effects, and examine “real world” examples of motion graphics used in contemporary media, including commercial broadcasting and the Web. Production techniques such as editing and importing content are also explored, with an emphasis on sophisticated motion control for high quality 2D animation effects. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 151A Digital Video I or permission of instructor.
 

Exploration of photo manipulation techniques using Adobe Photoshop. Students learn retouching and collaging techniques and the operation of the color scanner and printer. Elements of color theory and composition are covered. Software: Photoshop. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Note: students pursuing the A.A.S. degree in Visual Arts or the Digital Arts Certificate should take ART 125 Digital Imaging I.
 

Students are introduced to the more sophisticated features and uses of Adobe Photoshop, including professional color correction and image retouching, layer masks, proper preparation of large files for high resolution output, and working with service bureaus. Exercises and assignments emphasize solving complex problems, developing shortcuts and strategies for working efficiently, and integrating the use of Photoshop with other software applications. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART125 Digital Imaging I or ART 153 Computer Photo Imaging.
 

Students are mentored through the planning, execution and output of professional-level assignments using the full range of Adobe Photoshop features. Students are encouraged to develop projects based on their areas of greatest interest, and to integrate the use of other digital software applications as appropriate. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 154 Digital Imaging II.
 

An introduction to page layout and design using Adobe InDesign. Students learn basic software skills and how to combine images and text for print publication. Print production is also introduced through discussion of the process by which digital information is converted into ink on paper. The focus is on the application of good design principles to digitally generated projects suitable for the professional graphic design market. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

A continuation of Publication Design I. This course further explores layout design principals, with an emphasis on pre-press processes such as color calibration, scanning, color separation, trapping, half toning, color correction, proofing systems, basic color systems, ink and paper types are covered. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 156 Publication Design I (InDesign) or permission of instructor.
 

Provides extensive training in QuarkXPress as a page layout and design program. The focus is on the application of good design principles of computer-generated projects suitable for the commercial graphic design market. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

Provides students with additional experience and training on advanced uses of QuarkXPress. Students learn skills essential for creating and laying out more advanced projects such as brochures, newsletters, and catalogs. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART158 Publication Design I: QuarkXPress.
 

Students are mentored through the planning, execution and layout of professional-level assignments using the full range of Adobe Illustrator features. Projects based on areas of greatest interest are encouraged, and the integration of other digital software applications is also stressed. Software: Adobe Illustrator. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 146 Digital Illustration II.
 

This course allows advanced students to create collaborative projects using Digital Video and Motion Graphics software. Students create projects using advanced live action and animation editing techniques to bring their projects to life. Dramatic structures of movies are examined with an emphasis on developing aesthetic and narrative directorial and editing styles. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 152A Motion Graphics or permission of instructor.
 

This course is designed to give students knowledge and experience in the basic problems and solutions of photographic lighting. This is done through lectures, demonstrations, slide and video presentations, and student assignments completed in and outside of class. In class, students experiment with different lights and electronic flash equipment, while learning how to control contrast, direction, and color balance. Historical trends in lighting style are reviewed to establish a foundation in visual awareness. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 133 Photography I or equivalent.
 

Study of computer graphics techniques for concept and data presentation, as well as corporate identity and ad design basics. Print, slide and other output formats are explored. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

Introduction to design concepts and production techniques for the Web. Topics include understanding web environments and technologies, site structures, navigation methods, layout conventions, and the creation of fully functional web pages using HTML. Animation and multimedia considerations are discussed. Prerequisite: at least one college-level computer art class, or by permission of the instructor. Valhalla and Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

This capstone course is required for all students completing the Digital Arts Certificate. Structured as an independent study, students meet regularly with an assigned faculty mentor who helps them prepare a professional quality portfolio and provides general guidance and advice about pursuing a professional career. Valhalla and Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Note: students completing the Digital Arts Certificate should take this class in their last semester.
 

This course examines directing and producing techniques through the study of documentary videos and films. Students explore the social, psychological, political, and ethical issues that define the documentary film genre, and develop a proposal for their own documentary project. Topics covered include how to find and tell a story, and how to communicate a statement through visual and journalistic techniques. Essential production and budget management strategies are also reviewed. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 151A Digital Video I, or permission of instructor.
 

This course introduces the beginning screenwriter to the tools, vocabulary, and techniques used to write a screen story and take an original idea to outline form. Projects illustrate specific craft-related elements such as psychology of character, narrative storytelling, the visuals of storytelling and the use of dramatic tension. Critiques and analysis of cinematic works familiarize students with screenwriting terminology while they develop an original idea into a detailed outline for a screenplay. Through exercises, lectures and assignments the format and character of the screenplay are explored and by the end of the course, students have their story elements and outline and start their script. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 151A Digital Video I.
 

A course for students with very limited prior experience with computers, this course is a basic introduction to industry leading digital arts programs and provides a broad overview of their creative and professional uses. Students learn to create visual images and effects using digital imaging software, and explore a range of digital imaging practices and applications. Production techniques for print and electronic formats are also explored. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains and Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. No previous computer experience necessary.
 

This course provides a foundation in designing dynamic web pages using a host of graphic and audio/video software programs. Topics include designing multimedia for the Internet for creative and business applications, and creating content management design templates. Examples of web sites are presented for discussion and critique. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 169A Web Design I.
 

This lecture and lab course develops the skills needed to manage and maintain web sites. The course provides an overview of web technologies and various Internet applications. Topics include: management of dynamic web pages, streaming technologies, and E-Commerce. Server-side and client-side programming and TCP/IP applications are explored. Content management issues are also covered. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 169A Web Design I.
 

This course is an overview of web programming languages including HTML, CSS, JavaScript and ACTIONS for FLASH. Students explore and create basic programming applied to web and Internet applications. Programming examples are presented and discussed. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 169A Web Design I.
 

This hands-on course focuses on the technical aspects of digital video production. Students work in teams to produce a short documentary video using single camera techniques and online editing. Topics include production skills, cinematography, location lighting and sound, recording and editing. The course discusses how to find and tell a story, the use of journalistic techniques to develop a strong statement, and post-production planning for effective online editing. Westchester Art Workshop, Peekskill Extension Center. Class hrs. 3.
 

An intensive course that involves training the student to photograph people, events and sites through the critical eye of a documentary photographer. Shooting assignments include local, national and international issues and are reviewed and critiqued during class. Field trips to New York City sharpen the student’s visual and critical skills. The course includes historical and contemporary practices of documentary photography, along with technical and theoretical issues. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Not offered every semester.
 

A continuation of Documentary Photography I, this course explores critical issues in documentary photography, including historical and contemporary practices as well as technical issues. Intensive shooting assignments are critiqued during class, with an emphasis on completion of an individual documentary term project. Field trips to New York City sharpen the student’s visual and critical skills. Westchester Art Workshop, White Plains. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 185 Documentary Photography I.
 

This an introductory course where students explore navigational design for DVD menus. The course covers topics essential to the production of a DVD-Video disc, including MPEG encoding, menu creation, asset organization, linking and output formatting. Students learn how to author and produce unique interactive DVD videos for creative or professional uses. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: ART 152 Digital Video II or permission of instructor.
 

Digital Arts Projects

This course is an overview of multimedia applications used in new media and digital arts practices. Students design, develop and apply pre-production techniques for collaborative student projects. Through a series of demonstrations, students learn how industry-standard tools are applied to situation-based professional and creative projects. Multiple projects may serve diverse industries beyond the visual arts, including science, business, entertainment or educational and community needs. Contact hrs. 3. Prerequisite: at least one level II Digital Arts class, or permission of instructor.
 

Advanced exploration of drawing as a creative quest for unique, self-directed personal expression. This course explores contemporary approaches to drawing, and encourages students to probe deeply into the creative process through assignments that challenge them to confront the nature of creativity Itself. Emphasis is also placed on developing a professional portfolio with a coherent body of work. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite ART 102 Drawing II.
 

Advanced exploration of painting as a vehicle of creative, self-directed expression. Students refine and master skills while exploring more contemporary approaches to painting, and experimenting with personal approaches. Emphasis on portfolio development and creation of a coherent body of work. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite ART 104 Painting II.
 

An advanced exploration of printmaking as a personalized vehicle of expression. Students explore contemporary approaches to printmaking, while developing a coherent body of work and a professional portfolio. Presses include Charles Brand and American French Tool etching presses and a large format electric book press. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 111 Printmaking II or permission from Visual Arts Curriculum Chair.
 

A continuation of Sculpture I and II, with increased emphasis on independent exploration by the student. More advanced techniques are combined with the development of an individual style of expression and a coherent body of work. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 106 Sculpture II.
 

The purpose of the Independent Study is to provide advanced students the opportunity to develop skills, techniques, and creative thinking on a one-on-one basis with a member of the Visual Arts faculty. The Independent Study is only available to students who have achieved a sufficient level of advancement in their area of concentration, and they must have the permission of the Visual Arts Curriculum Chair. An evaluation procedure is established at the first student/faculty meeting. A maximum of 6 credits is available.
 

An introduction to the fundamentals of 3D design. Working with a range of traditional and non-traditional media, students examine relationships of form and space, and explore three-dimensional visual communication using elements such as line, plane, surface, and light. Design projects range from small constructions on an intimate scale to large conceptual installations. Emphasis on the development of a visual vocabulary and a facility with the language of art and design. No previous art experience is necessary. Class hrs.4. Offered spring semester.
 

Typography      

Well designed typography is essential to any visual medium that uses text, including video, film, print publication, and the Internet. This course is an in depth exploration of type as form. Students begin with a close study of letterforms followed by projects that explore basic principles of typography such as hierarchy and alignment, visual sequences, and grid systems. An essential course for students interested in pursuing a career in Graphic Design. Software: Adobe InDesign. Class hrs. 3. Not offered every semester.
 

An introduction to word/image relationships and the fundamental principles of communication design. Students develop visual concepts by designing logos and symbols, and apply principles of spatial organization through page layout projects. Computers are used extensively and augmented by traditional studio techniques. History of typography and design is also introduced. Class hrs. 4.
 

Intermediate study of word/image relationships in a variety of formats. Emphasis on developing concepts and creating communicative forms. Topics include brochures, advertising, and packaging. Computers are used extensively and augmented by traditional studio techniques. History of typography and design is explored. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: ART 265 Graphic Design I, or permission of instructor.

* Printmaking is the technical and aesthetic area of the visual arts in which the artist draws on (or otherwise manipulates) a print surface of some kind (such as a linoleum block or piece of etching zinc). Original works, resembling drawings, are created by applying ink to the incised (or otherwise treated) print surface and pressing paper against it.

**Photography courses require that students supply their own cameras and materials. Those on a budget should call the Westchester Art Workshop in advance for a detailed list of supplies: 914-606-7500.