Basics of Visual Perception (5cr)

Objectives (course unit)

The course prepares the student to observe and interpret the visual environment via drawing techniques.

The student knows how to convey their observations and interpretations via drawing. The student knows how to develop compositions that address balance, point of view, positive and negative space, proportion and picture plane usage.

Content (course unit)

Observations of composition, value and line via drawing techniques.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2) (course unit)

The student recognizes and defines the basics of visual perception. The student gives and receives constructive feedback. The student identifies essential practices in drawing technique and performs assigned tasks with supervision, follows procedures, and handles routine tasks.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4) (course unit)

The student outlines different elements of observation and interpretation. The student actively gives and receives feedback, cooperates responsibly, and identifies key practices in visual perception. The student takes responsibility for personal and group activities.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)

The student is able to analyse exact proportions and use picture planes in a skilful way.
The student uses feedback systematically for professional development and is able to present new viewpoints. The student is highly motivated in studies.

Location and time

The course will start on 19th of August at 9.00 in Mediapolis classroom 20064. The last feedback seminar is on 1st of December.

Assessment methods and criteria

Grading is based on your work, effort, attitude, class participation, and attendance & punctuality. The degree of difficulty and risk-taking of your exercises will be of utmost importance in grading.

Assessment scale

0-5

Teaching methods

Most of the class time will be working time, with some slide lectures and media demonstrations (61 hours). The approach is monochrome. The necessary supplies mostly students will get from school.

In addition to class time, you should be prepared to spend 3-4 hours a week on your own sketchbook (74 hours). The Drawing Sketchbook is the most important independent project.

Student workload

Most of the class time will be working time, with some slide lectures and media demonstrations (61 hours). The approach is monochrome. The necessary supplies mostly students will get from school.

In addition to class time, you should be prepared to spend 3-4 hours a week on your own sketchbook (74 hours). The Drawing Sketchbook is the most important independent project.

Content scheduling

19/8 Tue
10.15-15 Introductions to the course. Observation and drawing. Introductions to sketchbook working.
The tree – drawing to the sketchbook.

20/8 Wed
9-15 Contour Drawing. Students use their own shoes for observing and drawing.

21/8 Thu
10.15-15 Negative Shape/Space. Texture, Value Scale. Charcoal drawing

22/8 Fri
Independent studio work / Negative Shape/Space. Texture, Value Scale. Charcoal drawing

25/8 Mon
10.15-15 Tone: wrapping, drapery

26/8 Tue
9.00-15.00 Lecture about the anatomy of human head and neck. Portraits from history and contemporary artists. Life drawing exercises with charcoal or pencil.

27/8 Wed
9.00-15.00 Lecture about anatomy of human hand and arm. Examples from history and contemporary artists. Drawing exercises with pencil or charcoal.

28/8 Thu
10.15-12.00 Feedback to group A
13.15-15.00 Feedback to group B

3/11 Mon
9.00- 15.00
Lecture about the anatomy of human leg and foot. Examples from history and contemporary artists. Drawing exercises with pencil or charcoal.

4/11 Tue
Independent working with sketchbook

10/11 Mon
9.00-15.00
Human figure proportions. Drawing exercise, free medium.

11/11 Tue
Independent working with sketchbook

17/11 Mon
9.00-15.00
Croquis-drawing exercises, ink drawing

18/11 Tue
Independent working with sketchbook

24/11 Mon
Feedback to the sketchbooks
9.00-11.30 Feedback to group A
12.30-15.00 Feedback to group B

1/12 Mon
Final feedback
9.00-11.30 Feedback to group A
12.30-15.00 Feedback to group B

Further information

This course is an introduction to drawing through techniques, methods and issues. It is designed to assist you in developing skills and expressions through exercises which will acquaint you with a variety of media, techniques, ways of expression, and views on drawing. Through the exercises you will develop a visual vocabulary as well as an analytic, informed approach to both the practice of drawing, and to thinking about drawings. The course will also aim at honing your critical, analytical skills through short critiques and slide lectures. You will be asked to analyze your own work, that of your classmates.