Illustration I is the primary core course for illustration majors in their sophomore year. The students approach major elements of technique, application, and theory in relation to becoming professional illustrators. Studio sessions involve basic problem solving, anatomy, pictorial composition, media applications, figurative expression, use of reference tools, and illustrative techniques. Class structure allows demonstrations of processes and experimentation for assignment development. Group and individual critiques will be used to evaluate work.

This course will provide students with methods of conceptualizing, organizing, and executing illustrations using digital media. Projects will expose students to various types of digital techniques using current software applications for the creation of professional level assignments. The course will emphasize conceptual problem-solving methodology and the language of visualization while providing a consistent foundation of picture making as it relates to professional illustration production. Color systems, creation tools, and digital terminology and workflow will also be emphasized within this course.

This course provides students with the opportunity to explore the creative potential presented through the imaginative combination of both traditional and digital media. Students will be expected to utilize and combine skills learned in traditional and digital illustration courses to provide exciting and fresh illustrations unrestricted by a singular medium.

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.

Illustration Portfolio is the final preparatory 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. 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 students body of work and their career intentions. Presentation methods and business protocol will also be addressed. The final culminating project will be a finished portfolio. In addition to the portfolio document, students will be instructed in job seeking strategies including creating mailers and promotional materials, interviewing dynamics, resume writing, and correspondence.

Illustrative Design is an introduction to the principles and methods used to incorporate illustration with typography and layout. Students will conceptualize, organize and execute illustrations within a design context. Illustrative Design will emphasize the use of graphic elements such as symbols, charts, and type to be incorporated into illustrations. Layout terminology and illustration production methods will be included. Projects will expose students to various examples of current, real-world assignments that will demand the use of traditional illustration methods as well as computer-based production media. Assignments will stress solutions that are typically managed by art directors and designers. The course will emphasize the language of visualization and the relationship and coordination of concept, illustration and word. This course may be repeated once for a total of six credits.

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.

Illustrative Design is an introduction to the principles and methods used to incorporate illustration with typography and layout. Students will conceptualize, organize and execute illustrations within a design context. Illustrative Design I will emphasize the use of graphic elements such as symbols, charts, and type to be incorporated into illustrations. Layout terminology and illustration production methods will be included. Projects will expose students to various examples of real-world assignments that will demand the use of traditional illustration methods as well as computer-based production media. Assignments will stress solutions that are typically managed by art directors and designers. The course will emphasize the language of visualization and the relationship and coordination of concept, illustration and word.