FNA0106

Introduction to painting/drawing 1

6 points - 3 studio hours and 9 independent study hours per week - First semester - Caulfield and Gippsland - Prerequisites: None - Enrolment in any Monash degree course

Objectives On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to explore and experience various aspects and properties of visual perception, through drawing and painting from observation; be able to explore the subjective and objective aspects of observation; possess basic skills in drawing and painting; engage both sensory appreciation and the intellect in the study of various objects - through drawing and drawing-based painting - including the human figure.

Synopsis The semester is presented alternately in the form of a drawing class and a painting class. Topics are presented in a sequence to help build artistic understanding and technical skills. These topics include proportion (methods to help assess shapes accurately), the representation of three-dimensional form (the creating of space and the inner structure of forms), light and shade (the development of forms through illumination) and the role of interpretation (the necessity for selectivity, the various attitudes of 'looking', overcoming visual prejudice, and expression in nature). The practical studio sessions will be conducted by class exercises, with individual tuition. There will be some slide talks and discussion covering examples of work relevant to the set topics.

Assessment Folio (including an initial project of not less than 20%): 100%

Recommended texts

Brigadier A Collage: A complete guide for artists Watson Guptill, 1972
Itten J The art of colour Van Nostrand, 1973
Janson H W History of art Abrams, 1995
Levey M A concise history Thames and Hudson, 1970
Loran E Cezanne composition U California P, 1970
Skira A Still life: A history from Gitto to Cezanne Rizzoli, 1989

Back to the 1999 Art and Design Handbook