Open Studies Course Registration

This class explores using the potter’s wheel to create a variety of ceramic pieces. Students of all levels are welcome. Students will learn new skills and techniques related to throwing and glazing with the opportunity for more advanced students to refine skills and create larger and more complicated forms. As students create functional vessels such as cups, bowls and containers they will learn a variety of techniques for handle attachments, altering surfaces, and combining thrown forms. Students will also explore various glazing and surface decorating techniques to create one of a kind pieces. Beginners as well as more advanced students are welcome and will be supported and challenged in this course. There is a $80 materials fee which covers all clay and glaze usage. Students may wish to additionally purchase individual sets of tools.

"Students in this course, which is suitable for all levels, use traditional and contemporary techniques to explore the role of color in drawing. Media covered include pastels, watercolor pencils (used both wet and dry), and conté crayon, along with markers and inks that students may already have on hand. Through demonstration, open-ended experimentation and directed practice, students learn pastel techniques ranging from traditional blended surfaces to impasto and subtractive techniques such as sgraffito. Consideration will be given to properties of wet and dry media, mark-making and composition. Students also create toned customized paper for their drawings. Students learn to apply the fundamental principles of color theory through exercises that investigate color schemes, value range and how to organize a palette. In addition, students learn how to observe the interaction of color in nature and establish successful color relationships in their compositions using layering and blending."

By the end of this course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of camera controls, film processing, darkroom techniques, and the creation of final prints. Students will gain a deep appreciation for traditional darkroom photography and developing 4x5" film using a large format camera. Students will also learn the basics of scanning negatives for digital output. By the end of the course, students will have not only mastered the technical aspects of large format photography but also developed a personal artistic vision, and celebrated with a group show that includes having an opening reception in MICAs Main gallery. A $30 lab fee is required for this course.

Discover the freedom of artistic expression in our self-guided printmaking studio. Dive into relief, intaglio, or monotype printmaking projects at your own pace, receiving expert guidance and thematic suggestions or demonstrations when needed. Embrace material exploration, engage in critique sessions, and refine your work in a flexible and supportive environment. Join us to unleash your creativity with the perfect blend of independence, community, and instructor support. Participants should have experience with relief, intaglio, or monotype printmaking, but all levels from beginner to advanced are welcome.

In this workshop students will work through a progression of drawings that explore how different approaches to the figure can address mood, spirit, intensity, viewpoints, and emotion. Students will learn how to successfully portray the human body with dramatic form, mass, volume and tonality. While investigating the human form, students will use charcoal, conte crayon graphite and ink to produce a portfolio of figure drawings that range in style from traditional to more contemporary and conceptual approaches.

Sessions are offered for those who want to draw or paint from the live nude figure. Each section includes two models—one for quick poses for sketching and one for sustained drawing or painting. A class coordinator will ensure the quality of each session. No formal instruction is offered and there are no prerequisites. Open to undergraduate and graduate students, alumni, and open studies students

In this workshop, students will explore how to make intentional drawing choices that result in meaningful artwork. They will create 2D drawings that reimagine traditional approaches and experiment with design principles in new ways. The course will guide students in developing themes within their work, helping them create pieces that resonate with viewers. Through this process, students will consider the role their art plays in the world and learn effective strategies to envision and plan the work they want to create. This workshop is open to all artists, focusing on compositional skills that enhance any medium, ultimately leading to more impactful and purposeful work. This is a workshop for beginners and experienced artists.

This workshop is designed to help you refine your skills in observational drawing by focusing on lines and forms. We'll explore different charcoal techniques, and tools. Students will hone their drawing skills and receive constructive feedback on their work with guidance on how to create a cohesive and impressive collection of drawings. Each session will focus on a different strategy to build a strong foundation for your drawing portfolio and sharpen your ability to perceive the world around you. Whether you aspire to pursue a career in art or simply wish to express your creativity, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to develop your artistic talents.