Studio Art
Why pursue a studio art degree at North Central College?
Art makes your imagination soar! In studio art, you have the opportunity to explore visual media creatively and intellectually. Studio artists specialize in creating visual work that effectively communicates ideas and emotions to prepare you for 21st century careers in fine arts, digital communications, and education. Our facilities are outfitted with studios for painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture and interactive media. At North Central, you’ll find your creative voice as a professional artist and have plenty of opportunities to share it in our dedicated gallery spaces. And along the way, you’ll build a portfolio that will impress industry leaders, educators, prospective clients—and most importantly, you.As a graduate, you can pursue careers in industrial design, fashion design, the entertainment and media industry, education and more. Recent graduates have also pursued graduate degrees in master of fine arts and master of art therapy programs.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN
- Experimenting with a variety of media
- Bringing your ideas to life
- Sharpening your business and organizational skills
then a degree in STUDIO ART might be for you.
Why study studio art at North Central College?
In the Classroom
Coursework topics:
- 2-Dimensional Design
- 3-Dimensional Design
- Art History
- Ceramics
- Drawing
- Painting
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
Beyond the Classroom
As a studio art major, you can:
- Participate in the Senior Art Show, solo and group exhibits, and juried events in the College’s dedicated exhibit spaces and local art galleries
- Network with prominent artists at on-campus gallery exhibits and talks
- Study world-class art and architecture at galleries and museums in Chicago and Naperville
- Conduct undergraduate research and present your findings at the College’s Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research
- Apply for competitive talent scholarships in art
- Enroll in Chicago Term to experience living in the city while taking courses from North Central professors
- Access the University Partner Program offered by the Art Institute of Chicago:
- North Central students can gain admittance to the AIC free of charge with their North Central Student ID
- Experience lectures, educational programs, and other special events
Studio Art, B.A.
Studio art majors develop problem-solving skills and creative design thinking strategies through analysis, critique and creation of works of art. Students explore a range of media in foundational studio courses and refine their art practice in advanced courses, culminating in a senior art exhibition. Students can enhance their studies with an additional major or minor, a study abroad or Chicago term and internships. Graduates pursue professional opportunities and careers in art therapy, arts administration, education, commercial design, visual merchandizing, illustration, fine art, art entrepreneurship, and art graduate studies.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Art and Design.
Required Courses
Two of the following:
-
ARTD 107 - 2D Design: Explorations in Image Making
ARTD 107 - 2D Design: Explorations in Image Making
4 credit hours
A foundations course focused on process, study and application of core concepts of visual design — visual elements, principles of design and creative process. Course objectives include creative problem solving through acquisition of technical skills and introduction to a variety of materials.
-
ARTD 140 - Digital Art and Design
ARTD 140 - Digital Art and Design
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to digital imaging, computer graphics and graphic design to communicate messages using digital visuals. Emphasizes hands-on computer experience with digital image manipulation techniques, drawing and editing tools that allow students to create computer based graphic arts, design and page layout.
-
ARTD 160 - 3D Design: Form and Space
ARTD 160 - 3D Design: Form and Space
4.00 credit hours
A studio foundation course focused on process, study, and application of core concepts of art and design through the form and structure of three-dimensional space. Course objectives explore creative problem solving through acquisition and development of conceptual and technical skills by using a variety of materials.
Studio Art Core Courses
-
ARTD 120 - Drawing I: Observational Drawing
ARTD 120 - Drawing I: Observational Drawing
4.00 credit hours
An introductory drawing course focused on pictorial composition and black and white drawing media. Students sharpen perceptual awareness through drawing from direct observation and explore space, line, value, shape, form, texture, perspective and sighting and measuring.
One of the following:
-
ARTD 130 - Painting I: Materials, Tools and Techniques
ARTD 130 - Painting I: Materials, Tools and Techniques
4.00 credit hours
An introductory painting course focused on the visual language of painting and the basics of pictorial composition. Students explore the fundamentals of color theory as well as the materials, tools and techniques of painting from various periods.
-
ARTD 150 - Ceramics I: Introduction to Form and Techniques
ARTD 150 - Ceramics I: Introduction to Form and Techniques
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to clay placing an emphasis on hand building and wheel throwing techniques. Exploration of designing, decorating and firing procedures that address concepts of three-dimensional design and connections to historical and contemporary ceramics.
-
ARTD 260 - Sculpture I: Modern and Contemporary
ARTD 260 - Sculpture I: Modern and Contemporary
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to the critical principles and communicative possibilities of sculpture. Methods include exploring and researching the conceptual and technical works of modern and contemporary artists and their material exploration. The key concepts, materials and processes of sculpture using carving, modeling and construction are developed through individual projects, analysis and reflection.
Studio Art Electives
- An additional four credits in studio art at the 200-level
- Eight credits in studio art at the 300-level or above
- Four credits in studio art at the 400-level
Art History Courses
-
ARTH 102 - World Art Histories II
ARTH 102 - World Art Histories II
4.00 credit hours
Art history survey of visual art and architecture from 1400 CE through today. Geographic regions considered include the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa, emphasizing interactions between cultures.
One of the following:
-
ARTH 302 - Modern Art
ARTH 302 - Modern Art
4.00 credit hours
Historical development of modernism in the visual arts and architecture 1870-1970. Emphasis on theory, research and writing.
-
ARTH 304 - Contemporary Art
ARTH 304 - Contemporary Art
4.00 credit hours
Historical development of contemporary art internationally in the visual arts and architecture 1960-today. Emphasis on theory, research and writing.
Senior Art Exhibit/Capstone
-
ARTD 496 - Exhibition I: Research and Development
ARTD 496 - Exhibition I: Research and Development
0.00-1.00 credit hours
Students generate viable exhibition project proposals through research and discussion. The proposals are presented for evaluation to a panel of review. The course forms the basis of projects to be presented at the senior student exhibition, the capstone experience of art and design majors.
-
ARTD 498 - Exhibition II: Production and Installation
ARTD 498 - Exhibition II: Production and Installation
0.00-1.00 credit hours
Capstone experience where students produce exhibition projects that demonstrate their ability to design, justify, execute and present the results of original research based projects. Students work closely with an assigned project advisor, in addition to participating in supporting workshops, presenting at the senior student exhibition and defending the work at a final critique panel.
Note:
*
Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the
Studio Art, B.F.A
Studio art B.F.A. majors develop and master problem-solving skills and creative design thinking strategies through analysis, critique and creation of works of art. Students explore a thorough grounding in fundamental principles and techniques with opportunities for emphasis in one or more specific fine arts areas culminating in a senior art exhibition. Students wishing to explore graduate study in the future and/or a career as a professional artist are encouraged to pursue the Bachelor of Fine Arts major. The department recommends connecting the major with the liberal arts and sciences by pairing their art practice with an interdisciplinary minor, study abroad, language study or a focused grouping of courses from the departments and programs offered.
The B.F.A. is a professional program structured to provide in-depth, formal education that prepares students for entry into professional practice or advanced, professionally oriented study upon graduation. Graduates pursue professional opportunities and careers in art therapy, arts administration, education, commercial design, visual merchandizing, illustration, fine art, art entrepreneurship and art graduate studies.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Art and Design.
Required Courses
-
ARTD 107 - 2D Design: Explorations in Image Making
ARTD 107 - 2D Design: Explorations in Image Making
4 credit hours
A foundations course focused on process, study and application of core concepts of visual design — visual elements, principles of design and creative process. Course objectives include creative problem solving through acquisition of technical skills and introduction to a variety of materials.
-
ARTD 140 - Digital Art and Design
ARTD 140 - Digital Art and Design
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to digital imaging, computer graphics and graphic design to communicate messages using digital visuals. Emphasizes hands-on computer experience with digital image manipulation techniques, drawing and editing tools that allow students to create computer based graphic arts, design and page layout.
-
ARTD 160 - 3D Design: Form and Space
ARTD 160 - 3D Design: Form and Space
4.00 credit hours
A studio foundation course focused on process, study, and application of core concepts of art and design through the form and structure of three-dimensional space. Course objectives explore creative problem solving through acquisition and development of conceptual and technical skills by using a variety of materials.
Studio Art Core Courses
-
ARTD 120 - Drawing I: Observational Drawing
ARTD 120 - Drawing I: Observational Drawing
4.00 credit hours
An introductory drawing course focused on pictorial composition and black and white drawing media. Students sharpen perceptual awareness through drawing from direct observation and explore space, line, value, shape, form, texture, perspective and sighting and measuring.
One of the Following:
-
ARTD 130 - Painting I: Materials, Tools and Techniques
ARTD 130 - Painting I: Materials, Tools and Techniques
4.00 credit hours
An introductory painting course focused on the visual language of painting and the basics of pictorial composition. Students explore the fundamentals of color theory as well as the materials, tools and techniques of painting from various periods.
-
ARTD 150 - Ceramics I: Introduction to Form and Techniques
ARTD 150 - Ceramics I: Introduction to Form and Techniques
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to clay placing an emphasis on hand building and wheel throwing techniques. Exploration of designing, decorating and firing procedures that address concepts of three-dimensional design and connections to historical and contemporary ceramics.
-
ARTD 260 - Sculpture I: Modern and Contemporary
ARTD 260 - Sculpture I: Modern and Contemporary
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to the critical principles and communicative possibilities of sculpture. Methods include exploring and researching the conceptual and technical works of modern and contemporary artists and their material exploration. The key concepts, materials and processes of sculpture using carving, modeling and construction are developed through individual projects, analysis and reflection.
One of the Following:
-
ARTD 220 - Drawing II: Expanded Drawing
ARTD 220 - Drawing II: Expanded Drawing
4.00 credit hours
A course focused on process, ideation, research, collaboration and contemporary drawing practices. Students explore connections with other disciplines, including sculpture, installation, performance and design.
-
ARTD 225 - Figure Drawing
ARTD 225 - Figure Drawing
4.00 credit hours
Working directly from a live nude model, students study the expressive and conceptual possibilities of the human figure.
Studio Art Electives
-
An additional eight credit hours in studio art at the 200-level or above
-
Eight credit hours in studio art at the 300-level or above
- Eight credit hours in studio art at the 400-level
Note:
*Four credit hours can be fulfilled by a 400-level credited internship or independent study
Art History Courses
-
ARTH 100 - World Art Histories I
ARTH 100 - World Art Histories I
4.00 credit hours
Art history survey of visual art and architecture until 1400 CE. Geographic regions considered include the Mediterranean, Near East, Europe, Asia and Africa, emphasizing interactions between cultures.
-
ARTH 102 - World Art Histories II
ARTH 102 - World Art Histories II
4.00 credit hours
Art history survey of visual art and architecture from 1400 CE through today. Geographic regions considered include the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa, emphasizing interactions between cultures.
One of the Following:
-
ARTH 302 - Modern Art
ARTH 302 - Modern Art
4.00 credit hours
Historical development of modernism in the visual arts and architecture 1870-1970. Emphasis on theory, research and writing.
-
ARTH 304 - Contemporary Art
ARTH 304 - Contemporary Art
4.00 credit hours
Historical development of contemporary art internationally in the visual arts and architecture 1960-today. Emphasis on theory, research and writing.
Senior Art Exhibit/Capstone
-
ARTD 494 - Professional Practices
ARTD 494 - Professional Practices
2.00 credit hours
Development of practical professional skills and materials such as resume, cover letter, artist statement, interview techniques and portfolio. Exploration of common practices in the creative fields through lectures, individual meetings, field trips, discussions, writing and presentations to develop the skills necessary to participate in various existing art and design worlds after graduation.
-
ARTD 496 - Exhibition I: Research and Development
ARTD 496 - Exhibition I: Research and Development
0.00-1.00 credit hours
Students generate viable exhibition project proposals through research and discussion. The proposals are presented for evaluation to a panel of review. The course forms the basis of projects to be presented at the senior student exhibition, the capstone experience of art and design majors.
-
ARTD 498 - Exhibition II: Production and Installation
ARTD 498 - Exhibition II: Production and Installation
0.00-1.00 credit hours
Capstone experience where students produce exhibition projects that demonstrate their ability to design, justify, execute and present the results of original research based projects. Students work closely with an assigned project advisor, in addition to participating in supporting workshops, presenting at the senior student exhibition and defending the work at a final critique panel.
Students will submit an initial portfolio to the department when they declare the B.F.A. major or by the end of their sophomore year. Please contact the department for portfolio guidelines and submissions.
Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.F.A Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.
Studio Art Minor
A minor in studio art is for students wanting to explore a creative practice for personal expression or as an integral component to their major. The minor exposes students to concept, design, production, history, and critical analysis of art.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Art and Design.
A minimum of 20 credit hours, including:
Foundation/Gateway
One of the following:
-
ARTD 107 - 2D Design: Explorations in Image Making
ARTD 107 - 2D Design: Explorations in Image Making
4 credit hours
A foundations course focused on process, study and application of core concepts of visual design — visual elements, principles of design and creative process. Course objectives include creative problem solving through acquisition of technical skills and introduction to a variety of materials.
-
ARTD 140 - Digital Art and Design
ARTD 140 - Digital Art and Design
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to digital imaging, computer graphics and graphic design to communicate messages using digital visuals. Emphasizes hands-on computer experience with digital image manipulation techniques, drawing and editing tools that allow students to create computer based graphic arts, design and page layout.
-
ARTD 160 - 3D Design: Form and Space
ARTD 160 - 3D Design: Form and Space
4.00 credit hours
A studio foundation course focused on process, study, and application of core concepts of art and design through the form and structure of three-dimensional space. Course objectives explore creative problem solving through acquisition and development of conceptual and technical skills by using a variety of materials.
Drawing
-
ARTD 120 - Drawing I: Observational Drawing
ARTD 120 - Drawing I: Observational Drawing
4.00 credit hours
An introductory drawing course focused on pictorial composition and black and white drawing media. Students sharpen perceptual awareness through drawing from direct observation and explore space, line, value, shape, form, texture, perspective and sighting and measuring.
Art History
One course from the ARTH prefix, minumum four credit hours.
Advanced Studio Art
One of the following:
- Studio Art course at the 300- or 400-level
-
ARTD 391 - Interdisciplinary Arts I: Advanced Studio
ARTD 391 - Interdisciplinary Arts I: Advanced Studio
4.00 credit hours
A course focused on interdisciplinary approaches to art making and the development of an independent studio practice. Studio projects are combined with related critical theory and historical and emerging developments in the field. The course consists of group critiques, readings and discussions, student presentations, written statements and/or visiting artists' presentations and field trips.
Studio Art Internships and Jobs
A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.
Internships
- Art facilitator, DuPage Children's Museum, Naperville
- Presenter of two-dimensional art, Hobby Lobby, Bridgeview, IL
- Art gallery management intern, Brigantine Gallery, Downers Grove, IL
- Floral design intern, Scheffler's Flowers, Naperville
- Exhibitions intern, Oak Park Art League, Oak Park, IL
- Special events intern, Shedd Aquarium, Chicago
Graduate Schools
Recent art majors have been accepted at the following graduate schools:
- Mills College, Oakland, Calif.
- School of the Art Institute of Chicago
- Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, Ill.
- Cranbrook Academy of Art, Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
Careers
Recent graduates in art include:
- Art instructor
- Art therapist
- Gallery director
- Illustrator
- Interior designer
- Merchandiser
- Museum curator/exhibit preparator
- Studio technician
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