Students will research visual standards that are employed to develop game and entertainment worlds. Each student is required to select a fictional world, which is then dissected, analyzed in its constituent parts, and reassembled, with emphasis on how elements interrelate to create a coherent whole. The wide range of possible subjects provides unlimited opportunities for exploration and development of individual styles and expressions. Students produce research materials, sketches and models of the chosen environment.

This course will focus on preparing students to function as professional working illustrators. Students will prepare and supply professional business materials such as job cost estimates, work and job delivery schedules, etc. along with assignment work. Emphasis will be placed on the development and creation of a variety of finished illustrations that will demonstrate understanding of current industry standards. Students will gain insight into pricing, time management, and effective communication relative to the illustration profession. Creative problem solving, stylistic self-expression, and technical proficiency will also be emphasized. Students will participate in individual and group reviews and critiques.

Animating Digital Illustration will provide an introduction to illustrating for multimedia projects by creating computer generated animations and presentations. Current standards of imaging and motion software will be utilized. Assignments will investigate illustrated animation, sound, music, color, and special effects. The course will emphasize conceptual problem-solving methodology, color systems, digital terminology and motion file formats.

The illustration internship will provide students with the option to work in the illustration or visual communication field. Students may apply for internships to businesses based on the availability of positions and business job needs. Students must obtain permission of an instructor and complete the Internship Permission Form to enroll.

Illustration Portfolio is a culminating course for the Illustration major. Its purpose is to provide students with information, strategies, and guided instruction to market themselves and organize and create their final portfolio. Writing will be a substantial component of this course. Writing conventions will be covered in the lecture portion of the course. The course will include marketing and business practices for the professional illustrator. Students will receive individual critique and analysis of work created in prior studio classes and progress to the definition of a career agenda. Projects will be customized for each student’s body of work and their career intentions. Presentation methods and business protocol will also be addressed.

Illustration Independent Study will provide students with the ability to study in a specialized area with an individual faculty member. Students, with the assistance of a faculty adviser will propose a course of study. Illustration Independent Study students must obtain permission of an instructor and complete the Independent Study Permission Form to enroll.