VA 100
3 credits
Introduction to Visual Art
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students are introduced to a wide range of visual arts techniques and materials in hands-on studio settings. Through workshops with visual arts faculty, students make projects and learn how to show, share, and reflect upon their work in the context of contemporary visual art studio practice. Examples of Indigenous art are core content in this course; when the course is offered as part of the Indigenous Arts certificate, all workshops, modules, and examples will be drawn from Indigenous cultural and artistic practices
VA 110
3 credits
Creating on a Theme
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students are introduced to how themes and concepts inform material and technical decisions in studio-art practices. Each iteration of the course will focus on a theme determined by the instructor. Students will engage with texts, ideas, artistic works, and studio projects that align with the course theme. A praxis-based course, students develop personal and group studio projects in response to the course theme.
VA 113
3 credits
Introduction to Drawing
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students explore introductory drawing skills and the important role drawing plays in Indigenous and global contemporary art and cultures. Materials, ideas, and techniques are demonstrated as students develop strategies for individual expression through traditional and experimental drawing methods.
Note: This course may utilize nude models.
VA 115
3 credits
Introductory Studio I: Material Practices
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course introduces various methods of 2-D visual communication related to creative image making and surface production. Students explore elements and principles of contemporary design and a wide range of material processes, and apply this knowledge to concept development and creative strategies.
VA 116
3 credits
Intro Studio II: Space, Form and Time
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course explores traditional three-dimensional artistic processes with contemporary approaches that expand and transcend conventional definitions of these practices. Hybrid and interdisciplinary forms of 3D practices will be explored through project-based learning that encompasses topics to include: bodily representation and performative presence, space and time, form and content, and structure and function.
VA 117
3 credits
Introduction to Animation Drawing
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course introduces animation drawing through a variety of methods. Students will explore aspects of drawing to facilitate the production and development of all aspects of animation. This course covers the basic skills and knowledge of drawing techniques that form the basis of the fully developed animated project. There will be a focus on aspects of line, shape, value, perspective, spatial effects, and composition as related to animated drawing.
VA 119
3 credits
Introductory Studio III: Digital Multi-Tool
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This foundation course provides students with the skills to use readily accessible equipment and software tools for creative art projects. Digital imaging, audio-visual media, as well as techniques for personal documentation and archiving are explored.
VA 140
3 credits
Indigenous Design and Technology: Special Topics I
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This introductory course provides an opportunity for students, artists and educators to study Indigenous design-related techniques and art making practices. In this course students will gain skills to create works inspired by traditional and contemporary methods. Students will discuss issues of cultural copyright and will be encouraged to create work applicable to their own cultural contexts.
Note: This course is offered as VA 140 and FD 140. Students may only take one of these with the same letter designation for credit.
VA 141
3 credits
Indigenous Design and Technology: Special Topics II
Prerequisite(s): VA 140/FD 140 with the same letter designation
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course provides an opportunity to combine traditional technology and design within a contemporary context. Students will learn how to work with the basic principles of traditional Indigenous designs and how to apply their own designs to a functional and aesthetic object of their own making.
Note: This course is offered as VA 141 and FD 141. Students may only take one of these with the same letter designation for credit.
VA 142
3 credits
Indigenous Art and Design in Context
Prerequisite(s): VA 140/FD 140 and VA 141/FD 141 with the same letter designations
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course provides students with the opportunity to practice and refine skills learned in traditional and contemporary Indigenous design and technology. Practice will be informed by students’ research into the cultural context of these practices, with specific reference to Northwest Coast cultures.
Note: This course is offered as VA 142 and FD 142. Students may only take one of these for credit.
VA 143
3 credits
Indigenous Art and Professional Practices
Prerequisite(s): VA 140 and VA 141, plus three additional university-level credits
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Taught by instructors steeped in the reality and experience of indigenous art practices, this course offers an introduction to the broad principles of building a professional art practice. Students will be taught a range of skills important in succeeding as a professional creative artist or in related occupations and fields. Students will learn about balancing cultural integrity and traditional knowledge with cultural industry demands.
VA 165
3 credits
Word and Image
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Following a historical survey of approaches to produce hybrid works, students will explore and practice the techniques of an integrated, inter-dependent artform of using textual elements with still and moving images (video).
Note: Students with credit for ENGL 165 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 180
3 credits
Digital Photography
Prerequisite(s): None.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course emphasizes the basics of digital photography, beginning with digital camera controls, progressing on to editing fundamentals and techniques, and ending with the production of final prints. The functional and aesthetic impact of digital photography in today’s society is also investigated.
Note: Students with credit for GD 158 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 195
1 credit
Indigenous Arts Experiential Learning
Prerequisite(s): Admission into the Indigenous Arts certificate.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
In this experiential course, students in the Indigenous Arts certificate participate in learning opportunities with artists and cultural knowledge keepers, enhancing their understandings of art practice and/or Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and creating. The focus and scheduling of the course is responsive to student interests, program needs, and artists’ availability.
Note: This course is offered with different letter designations (C, D, and E). Students in the Indigenous Arts certificate take VA 195 three times during their program.
VA 221
3 credits
Drawing Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): VA 101 or VA 113. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to one of VA 100 or VA 113.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students advance their understanding of contemporary drawing principles and practices while expanding their knowledge of Indigenous and global perspectives on drawing. Focused skill development, personal expression and experimentation are explored through black and white and colour applications.
Note: This course may utilize nude models.
VA 222
3 credits
Figure Painting
Prerequisite(s): VA 101 or VA 223.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course is dedicated to painting the human figure. Students will learn how to paint from a live model in both draped and undraped settings. Students will utilize a variety of techniques and materials in the study of traditional and non-traditional methods of figure painting.
Note: This course utilizes nude models.
VA 223
3 credits
Painting Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students learn about and practice historical and contemporary painting processes. Technical skills and experimental approaches are explored in context, with introductions to painting theory. Examples of diverse approaches to painting, including the work of Indigenous artists, are included.
VA 224
3 credits
Painting II
Prerequisite(s): VA 223
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course expands on the principles and practices introduced in VA 223. Emphasis is placed on skill development, personal expression, and experimentation. Students gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of the relationship between form and content.
Note: Students with credit for VA 124 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 225
3 credits
Figure Drawing Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100 or VA 113.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students will investigate the formal and conceptual elements of introductory figure drawing while learning how to draw from a live model. A variety of live drawing techniques and in-class material demonstrations inform the experimental possibilities of figure drawing as it pertains to contemporary art practice and discourse.
Note: This course utilizes nude models.
Note: Students with credit for VA 101 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 231
3 credits
Sculpture Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. One of VA 100, 113, 115, or 116 is recommended. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students explore 3-dimensional properties of objects and materials. Traditional building and fabrication skills are introduced, along with principles of form, concept development, and contemporary studio practices. Students are introduced to 3D and sculptural practices, including examples of Indigenous artworks from a range of historical periods, including contemporary.
VA 232
3 credits
Sculpture and Extended Media II
Prerequisite(s): VA 231
Corequisite(s): None
Pre- or corequisite(s): None
Engaging in the larger cultural dialogue, students explore innovative content and technologies in the areas of object-making, site based installation, performance, time-based works, and digital forms. Students develop conceptual content concurrently with practical knowledge of materials and fabrication techniques.
Note: Students with credit for VA 132 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 240
3 credits
Indigenous Design and Technology: Special Topics III
Prerequisite(s): Prior completion of Indigenous Arts certificate; VA 140 and VA 141 with the same letter designation (for example, VA 140C and VA 141C are prerequisites for VA 240C)
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course continues the study of traditional technology and design within a contemporary context. Students begin to work with intermediate techniques and principles of indigenous design, and will apply a greater understanding of cultural context in the creation of functional and aesthetic objects.
VA 241
3 credits
Indigenous Design and Technology: Special Topics IV
Prerequisite(s): VA 240 with the same letter designation
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course continues the study of traditional technology and design within a contemporary context, with the emphasis on advanced techniques and principles of indigenous design. Students apply a thorough understanding of cultural context in the creation of functional and aesthetic objects, and gain the knowledge and insight to allow for a continued independent practice.
VA 251
3 credits
Print Media Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students learn basic relief printmaking methods, including linocut, relief stenciling, and colour applications. Historical and social contexts for understanding print media and examples of Indigenous printmakers are introduced as students develop their own perspective on image development in contemporary art.
VA 252
3 credits
Print Media II
Prerequisite(s): VA 251.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course introduces the fundamental procedures of etching on zinc and copper plus an introduction to collograph. Students will move from beginner to more advanced etching techniques including multiple plate colour printing.. Projects and critiques focus on conceptual development in relation to contemporary and historical visual print culture. Basic digital scanning techniques and digital file-to-print preparation will be covered.
VA 260
3 credits
Professional Skills for Visual Artists
Prerequisite(s): VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students learn key professional skills necessary for establishing a cohesive body of artwork, exhibiting their work publicly and building an artist’s curriculum vitae, guided by contemporary best practices in the visual arts. Students demonstrate professional skills through a variety of creative research and hands-on activities centered around their own practices. This course culminates in a public group exhibition on campus.
VA 271
3 credits
Interdisciplinary Collaborative Art Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students learn how to engage in group project work from ideation to creation and documentation. Technical skills and conceptual frameworks are developed through creative praxis and group generation of image, sound, digital, and performance-based artworks.
VA 272
3 credits
Image, Sound, and Performance Art II
Prerequisite(s): VA 271.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course builds on the principles and practices introduced in VA 271. Building on new themes and materials, students continue to explore image, sound, and performance art practices while deepening their academic research related to their art production.
VA 280
3 credits
Digital Photography Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students explore photographic digital image-making through development of technical and concept-building skills in a series of personal projects. Students learn to incorporate contemporary perspectives in art photography and current issues into the content of their work.
VA 283
3 credits
Darkroom Photography Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): None. One of VA 113, VA 115, or VA 116 is strongly recommended. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Introduces the basic principles of black-and-white darkroom photography. Students learn manual camera controls using 35 mm film cameras, followed by chemical processing and printing. Photographic processes involving digital scanning and printing are introduced. Students learn about contemporary concepts and practices in film-based photo art.
VA 284
3 credits
Darkroom Photography
Prerequisite(s): VA 283.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course extends the practice of black-and-white darkroom photography. Students learn archival chemical printing, and are introduced to medium-format film. Creative experimental darkroom techniques will also be explored.
Note: Students must either provide their own 35 mm camera or rent one from the department.
Note: Students with credit for VA 184 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 295
3 credits
Special Topics in Studio Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): VA 100.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students gain knowledge of a specific area of studio arts practice, focused on techniques, materials, and relevant concepts related to the topic.
Note: This course will be offered under different letter designations (e.g. C-Z) representing different topics. This course may be repeated for credit provided the letter designation differs.
VA 300
3 credits
Creative Research Methods
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 100, VA 110, or (12 credits in AH, FILM, GD, MEDA, SOCA, THEA, or VA).
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students engage with a range of creative research methods, tactics, and strategies to identify their own creative research interests. Students learn how to apply creative research methodologies to their artistic work by incorporating, practicing, and enacting ideas and theories in their own art practice. Topics include de/anti-colonial methodologies, embodied practice, archival methods, and ethics in artistic research.
VA 301
3 credits
Creative Praxis
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 100, VA 110, or (12 credits in AH, FILM, GD, MEDA, SOCA, THEA, or VA).
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students focus on how to integrate themes, theory, and studio practice. They will learn to identify and develop specific questions to drive artistic research and studio practice. Each course offering will address a theme determined by the instructor and center learning about how to incorporate thematic concepts and ideas into material and formal decision-making to build strong, de/anti-colonial contemporary studio arts practices.
VA 310
3 credits
Art, Gender, and the Body
Prerequisite(s): VA 100 or VA 110.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Through studio projects, students challenge gender stereotypes and biases, developing perspectives on art as a tool for resistance, empowerment, and healing. Students engage in a critical examination of the social, cultural, and historical contexts that shape how gender and the body are represented and experienced in various forms of art. Indigenous and global perspectives inform how art can be a powerful tool for expressing identity, reclaiming cultural heritage, and challenging dominant narratives about gender and the body.
VA 311
3 credits
Place and Art-Making
Prerequisite(s): VA 100 or VA 110.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
In this studio-based course, students explore the relationship between place and space with focus on the importance of land-based methods and the ways in which Indigenous ways of knowing and being inform understanding of site and locality in contemporary art. Creative projects, guests, texts, and discussions promote critical thinking and reflection on the complex issues surrounding land, sovereignty, and colonization. Student art practices are enriched by engagement with diverse perspectives and experiential learning.
VA 321
3 credits
Advanced Studio: Painting and Drawing
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 221, VA 222, VA 223, VA 224, or VA 225.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students expand their knowledge of painting and drawing techniques. Indigenous perspectives on drawing and painting are explored through the study of Indigenous artists’ practice. Self-directed projects experimenting with thematic, formal, and conceptual principles in contemporary art are developed in consultation with the instructor
VA 322
3 credits
Painting/Drawing IV
Prerequisite(s): VA 321.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
An advanced study of painting and drawing techniques with a focus on series development. Students work to produce bodies of artwork that exhibit formal and conceptual depth, as well as technical proficiency. Students work independently on projects designed in consultation with the instructor.
VA 325
3 credits
Advanced Studio: Figure Painting and Figure Drawing
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 221, VA 223, or VA 225.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students elaborate on their study of painting and drawing techniques related to live, timed, and untimed inclusive representations of the human figure. Formal, conceptual, and technical depth is prioritized as students complete in-class sessions, design their own projects, and work independently, in consultation with the instructor.
Note: Draped and undraped (nude) models are present for in-class sessions
VA 331
3 credits
Advanced Studio: Sculpture
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 232, VA 261, or VA 272. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 231.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students respond to their environment with theoretical and philosophical frameworks, furthering their understandings of diverse contemporary sculpture practices and contexts, including Indigenous sculpture. Interdisciplinary and 3D materials, techniques, and approaches are expanded upon through demonstrations and self-directed projects.
VA 332
3 credits
Sculpture and Extended Media IV
Prerequisite(s): VA 331
Corequisite(s): None
Pre- or corequisite(s): None
Students develop an integrated approach to their 3D and extended media studio practice, choosing from a broad range of creative possibilities within the material, spatial, and non-static arts, and combining research, conceptual skills and strategies. Works involve multiple participants through collaboration and shared authorship.
VA 351
3 credits
Advanced Studio: Print Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 113, VA 115, VA 116, VA 252, and one of VA 160 or VA 180. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 251.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students explore the possibilities of mixing multiple print mediums. Photo-based printmaking and digital printing strategies are incorporated with traditional print techniques and materials. Conceptual development of projects is contextualized within diverse Indigenous, traditional, and contemporary print media cultures.
VA 352
3 credits
Print Media IV: Advanced Mixed Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 351
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course will explore interdisciplinary and conceptual approaches to print media, including basic photo-screen techniques and aspects of digital print media. Students will learn to choose the best print media combination to resolve individual concepts, and will critically understand how their work engages with current contemporary art practices.
Note: Students wil credit for FA 352 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 360
3 credits
Professional Development and Practices
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including 15 credits in VA. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 260.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students learn about career pathways in visual arts, explore post-graduation career and creative opportunities, and identify how to meet their personal and professional goals related to their art practice. Guest speakers complement in-depth analysis of required components and skills necessary for participation in the contemporary cultural sector. Students develop grant applications, professional application packages, and complete the course with a post-graduation action plan.
VA 365
3 credits
Documentary Video Storytelling
Prerequisite(s): 15 credits of university-level arts courses. It is also recommended that students have FILM 110 or FILM 120 and one of the following: VA 160, VA 165/ENGL 165, VA 170, or VA 272. Alternatively, students should have some other experience of working with film or video production.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course offers students knowledge of key concepts and practical skills in documentary storytelling for digital video. Students will develop a short documentary video (of approximately ten minutes in length) from the proposal/treatment stage through pre-production, production, and post-production. Students will be introduced to the work of Canadian filmmakers, who have long been considered leaders in the documentary genre.
Note: This course is offered as VA 365, FILM 365, and JRNL 365. Students may take only one of these for credit.
VA 366
3 credits
Documentary Video Production
Prerequisite(s): VA 365/FILM 365/JRNL 365 or interview and portfolio review. One of the following is strongly recommended: VA 160, VA 161, VA 271, or VA 180.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course offers students with previous video production experience an opportunity to develop and direct a short documentary video project from the proposal/treatment stage through pre-production, production, and post-production. Students will be exposed to a range of approaches and skills for crafting compelling documentaries that say something about culture, society, history, or contemporary life.
Note: The course is offered as FILM 366 and VA 366. Students may take only one of these for credit.
VA 371
3 credits
Advanced Studio: Interdisciplinary Collaborative Art
Prerequisite(s): VA 113, VA 115, VA 116, VA 272, and one of VA 160 or VA 180. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 271.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students expand their understanding of participation and partnership as a radical, de/anti-colonial way of sustaining artistic practice. Theory and principles of collaboration, cooperation and spectatorship are examined and implemented to provide pathways for meaningful collective practice. Working in groups, students research, plan, develop and share works where audiences are part of meaning-making. Experimental and unconventional art-making modes are required.
VA 372
3 credits
New Media IV: Project in New Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 371 or permission of instructor
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This studio course is designed to allow for individual research and material development in the creation of an exhibition-quality work of new media art. Students are exposed to contemporary studio practices while they develop a material and conceptual language around their work. Course content is explored through theoretical and creative research resulting in a final project.
VA 383
3 credits
Advanced Studio: Photography
Prerequisite(s): VA 283 and one of VA 180 or VA 284. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to VA 280 or VA 283.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students focus on the integration of conceptual development and contextual awareness within contemporary photographic art. Studio techniques such as studio lighting, colour printing, and experimental processes are explored. Students have the option to explore various formats of camera. Students explore the role of photography within contemporary visual culture through oral presentations and group critiques.
VA 384
3 credits
Large-Format Photography
Prerequisite(s): VA 383.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course focuses on the introduction of the large-format view camera. Technical development and conceptual applications will be explored through class assignments. Creative production may utilize a hybrid of digital and analog photographic forms.
VA 391
3 credits
Socially Engaged Art Practices
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 100, VA 110, or (12 credits in AH, FILM, GD, MEDA, SOCA, THEA, or VA).
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Through collaboration with peers and a partner organization, students will develop de/anti-colonial community relationships and awareness of care practices through a creative project. As artist-citizens, students will challenge historical narratives and negotiate meaningful, ethical, cultural contexts for creative work. Using artistic research methodologies, group decision-making and consultative processes, students in the class will develop visual arts projects with the aim of acknowledging and expanding community relationships.
Note: Field trips outside of class time will be required.
Note: Students with credit for VA 390 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 392
3 credits
Public Art
Prerequisite(s): One of VA 100, VA 110, or (12 credits in AH, FILM, GD, MEDA, SOCA, THEA, or VA).
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students work as a group on a collaborative public-facing arts project, such as a mural or installation. In partnership with an organization, students propose and develop a project intended for placement in an accessible, regional community setting. Working as an artistic team, the group negotiates concepts, develops a timeline, and completes their on-site project within a budget. Students engage with principles of positionality and place, Indigenous ways of knowing and being, and community goals.
Note: Field trips outside of class time will be required.
Note: Students with credit for VA 390 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 395
3 credits
Special Topics in Visual Arts
Prerequisite(s): 6 credits of VA or 45 university-level credits. Note: As of September 2025, prerequisites will change to one of VA 100, VA 110, or 45 university-level credits.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Students gain in-depth knowledge and experience in an advanced studio technique, in a specific conceptual or theoretical approach to art production, or in a particular area of professional practice.
Note: This course will be offered under different letter designations (e.g. C-Z) representing different topics. This course may be repeated for credit provided the letter designation differs.
VA 401
4 credits
Senior Seminar I
Prerequisite(s): Two upper-level Art History courses, to include AH 314 or AH 315, plus 30 additional university-level credits.
Corequisite(s): None
Pre- or corequisite(s): None
This course presents an overview of key theoretical issues important to the practice and reception of contemporary art. Modern and contemporary cultural theories, art theory, and art criticism are examined.
Note: This course is offered as AH 401 and VA 401. Students may take only one of these for credit.
VA 403
3 credits
Senior Seminar II
Prerequisite(s): AH 401/VA 401.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This seminar explores advanced theoretical issues pertaining to art-making practices. Research will be conducted on contemporary art practice, cultural theory, and art criticism.
Note: This course is offered as AH 403 and VA 403. Students may take only one of these for credit.
VA 405
6 credits
Senior Studio Project
Prerequisite(s): VA 300 or VA 301.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Over two semesters, students refine and expand the conceptual components, material choices, and technical execution of a major studio project through experimentation, research, writing, critiques, and faculty/peer feedback. Indigenous ways of knowing and being guide participation and studio presence of participants. Students will install, publicly present, and document their final body of artwork in preparation for a public exhibition.
Note: This course is offered as VA 405A and VA 405B. Students must take both in the same academic year to receive credit.
Note: Students with credit for VA 402 or VA 404 cannot take this course for further credit.
VA 421
3 credits
Directed Study: Painting and Drawing
Prerequisite(s): VA 322 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 422
3 credits
Directed Study: Painting and Drawing
Prerequisite(s): VA 322 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 431
3 credits
Directed Study- Sculpture
Prerequisite(s): VA 332 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 432
3 credits
Directed Study: Sculpture
Prerequisite(s): VA 332 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 451
3 credits
Directed Study: Print Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 352 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 452
3 credits
Directed Study: Print Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 352 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 471
3 credits
Directed Study: New Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 372 and permission of the instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Permission of the instructor and the department head are required to register in the course.
VA 472
3 credits
Directed Study: New Media
Prerequisite(s): VA 372 and permission of the instructor and department head based on portfolio; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Permission of the instructor and the department head are required to register in the course.
VA 483
3 credits
Directed Study: Photography
Prerequisite(s): VA 384 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 484
3 credits
Directed Study: Photography
Prerequisite(s): VA 384 and permission of instructor and department head based on portfolio review; subject to Dean’s approval.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This advanced credit course enables students to work independently on self-designed projects and associated written assignments developed in consultation with a faculty member. Instructor’s permission is required to register in the course.
VA 490
3 credits
Directed Studies in Studio Practice
Prerequisite(s): 33 credits in AH, SOCA, or VA, and department permission.
Corequisite(s): None,
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
A self-directed course in which a student proposes and realizes a body of work. Through independent work and regular consultation with the instructor, the student formulates their own creative research pathways, executes a major project, reflects upon studio processes and material studies, and develops critical and contextual awareness of their proposed subject matter.
