Art & Creative Media Department

Department Mission

The Department of Art & Creative Media offers rigorous experience-based instruction in the practices of studio art, creative media, art history and art education. A full-time faculty of working artists and scholars along with accomplished visiting professionals are dedicated to the development of emerging creatives who enrich our society with thoughtful insight, valuable skill sets and an understanding of the responsibilities that come with visual literacy.

Creativity and critical insights are essential to any academic inquiry. As such, the Department is committed to being accessible to students from a variety of University disciplines, our vibrant Pueblo culture and the Southwest United States. Art, history and education are fundamental to a community’s identity; they are a reflection of its values and are key to fostering a diverse culture of lifelong learners.

Department Goals

Prepare students in the practices of Studio Art, Creative Media, Art History, and Art Education toward the achievement of personal creative goals, art-related careers or further academic and professional education.
Provide relevant studio and laboratory opportunities within well-appointed facilities that are conducive to creative growth and the development of fundamental skills across a range of formal topics.
Nurture an environment that encourages professional curiosity, collaboration and respect for diverse and multiple viewpoints.
Provide services and experiences to a variety of University disciplines as well as local, regional and national communities, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and global citizenship.

Department Student Learning Outcomes

Outcome 1 Exploration of the Creative Process: Experiment with and adopt a variety of processes, methods, and interpretations to explore innovative solutions to creative challenges.

Outcome 2 Development of Skills & Techniques: Exhibit sufficient fluency in one or more media to craft work that meets appropriate professional standards for the scale and scope of a project. Demonstrate an ability to adapt techniques and formal methods to serve the objectives of the work.

Outcome 3 Communication of Ideas & Context: Clearly articulate visually, orally, and in writing the content and context of art historical research and creative work.

Outcome 4 Demonstrate Awareness & Intellectual Maturity: Display a willingness to question one’s own perspective. Approach the creative and scholarly process with curiosity and persistence. Take initiative in working independently or collaboratively to achieve stated objectives.

General Program Requirements

The art faculty firmly believes that a quality undergraduate art program must be built from the strong foundation of basic concepts and techniques provided by the required ART CORE courses. Art history, drawing and design combined with an introduction to the basic art processes, provide the necessary background of information and skills for individual artistic growth and maturity. A strong grounding in the fundamentals of art, as provided in the ART CORE, indicates the department’s insistence upon respect for and commitment to the academic discipline of art as a professional career.
Art majors must complete the required courses known as the ART CORE, before proceeding into the beginning courses.
No grade lower than a C will count toward either an art major or minor.
BFA candidates must maintain a 3.0 in the art major.
Students are required to take 30 hours of major courses in residency.

Co-Curricular Requirements

The faculty supports and encourages the involvement of art majors and minors in the Art Club and related activities specific to each studio.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Programs

Minors

Art & Creative Media, Minor

ART

ART 100 Visual Dynamics (GT-AH1) 3(3-0)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
Appreciation and understanding of visual experiences and techniques reflecting the cultural dynamics of creativity.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: H, GT-AH1) (CC)

ART 110 Art Career Orientation 3(2-2)

As Needed.
Guided development of individual job objectives.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 115 Two-Dimensional Design 3(1-4)

As Needed.
The foundation of visual form, emphasizing two-dimensional design and color theory.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 116 Three-Dimensional Design 3(1-4)

As Needed.
The foundation of visual form, emphasizing three dimensional design.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 141 Drawing I: Observational Drawing 3(1-4)

Fall.
Development of perception and technical skills in rendering.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 176 Photography: Expressive Composition 3(2-2)

Spring.
An introduction to observational seeing through photography. The class focuses on composition within the camera frame and selecting the photographs that most effectively convey the objectives of each experiment.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 233 Sculpture I 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Basic problems in sculpture relating specific concerns of visual form and process.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.

ART 234 Painting I 3(1-4)

Spring.
Introduction to painting in oil and acrylic where the control of space will be approached through the use of color.
Prerequisite: ART 115 and ART 141.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.

ART 242 Drawing II: Life Drawing 3(1-4)

Spring.
Continued development of perception and technical skills in rendering, utilizing the human figure. Detail investigation of the skeleton and muscle forms are explored.
Prerequisite: ART 141.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 247 Ceramics I 3(1-4)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
Essential skills in ceramic processes; emphasis on form and function as related to students' needs and creative intent.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 270 Printmaking I 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Introduction to multiple image production utilizing relief printing including woodcut, linocut and collagraph. Introduction to shop techniques, safety procedures and history of the medium.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Art core or permission of instructor.

ART 274 Art & Design Essentials 3(2-3)

Fall.
This course expands on the concepts of ARC 174 toward incorporating industry standard digital tool-sets into the creative process as well as exploring the dynamics of visual communication.
Prerequisite: ARC 174.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 276 Photography: Creative Lighting 3(2-3)

Fall.
Explore the fundamental characteristics of light & its effect on the photographic image. Use the 5 characteristics of light to direct every aspect of the process from basic studio sets to large scale location works.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 281 Principles of Graphic Design 3(2-3)

Spring.
Exploration of Graphic Design Theory and the Basic Principles for the effective use of color, dynamic type layout, branding & logo design as well as page & screen design.
Prerequisite: ARC 174.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 291 Special Topics (1-5 V)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (99).

ART 301 Late Twentieth-Century Aesthetics 3(3-0)

As Needed.
This course introduces the classic writings in ancient and modern philosophy theory and criticism informing American and European art of the late twentieth century.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 310 Portfolio Review 1(1-0)

As Needed.
Art majors must present a portfolio of their artwork or art history research prospectus for the art faculty to evaluate.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Art Core.

ART 312 Medieval Art (3 V)

As Needed.
Explore the world of medieval art from ivory cosmetics cases to gargoyles. Discover the roles that art played in daily life, politics, and religion within Jewish, Christian, and Islamic contexts c. 300-1300 CE.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 314 Baroque & Rococo Art 3(3-0)

As Needed.
From Caravaggio to Chippendale, baroque and rococo art presents a feast for the senses. This course examines such topics as drama and sensuality in religious art, courtly life, depictions of the everyday, and eroticism.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 333 Sculpture II: Site Art 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Creating sculptural elements whose form and content are a response to its site and context.
Prerequisite: ART 233.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (9).

ART 334 Painting II 3(1-4)

Fall.
Techniques in oil and acrylic emphasizing the application of materials to subject matter and composition.
Prerequisite: ART 234.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 342 Drawing III 3(1-4)

Spring.
Advanced course in pursuit of increased skills of perception and artistic anatomy.
Prerequisite: ART 141 and ART 242.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 347 Ceramics II 3(1-4)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
In-depth development of specific ceramic techniques; skills and personalization of style. Students will load and fire all the kilns as well as mix glazes.
Prerequisite: ART 247.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 370 Printmaking II 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Introduction to traditional and non-traditional methods of Intaglio printing including line etch, aquatint, dry point, resist methods, photo processes and color printing.
Prerequisite: ART 270.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 374 Motion Graphics 3(1-4)

Spring.
Students explore contemporary principles, compositing methods and industry standard software to create visual effects for video, animation and motion related projects.
Prerequisite: ART 274 or MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 376 Photography: Digital to Darkroom 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Produce exhibition quality prints from the same historical processes that defined the very invention of photography. Experiment with 19th century recipes & precious metals to craft exquisite photographic prints.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 381 Strategic Branding & Advertising Design 3(2-3)

Fall.
Students focus on how design methodologies and branding influences an audience. Client relations and design communication are a primary emphasis in this process oriented course.
Prerequisite: ART 281.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 382 Methods of Character Design 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Take on the role of a character designer or illustrator by exploring the various processes and concepts that go into creating effective game characters.
Prerequisite: ART 274 or MAE 251.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 383 Exhibition Design 2(0-4)

As Needed.
Communication and design principles applied to the display of objects. Special attention to museum and gallery installations.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.

ART 397 Studio Series (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Advanced studio offerings for students who have completed all other course offerings in a specific discipline. Scheduled concurrently with lower-division studios.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (9).

ART 410 Senior Career Orientation 1(1-0)

As Needed.
Formal presentation of student's portfolio or art history research to the art faculty. Senior exhibition, artist's statement, resumes and job placement interviews.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Senior standing.

ART 412 Contemporary Art (1-3 V)

As Needed.
A study of selected recent developments in the visual arts. Reading, viewing, and discussion of new developments in media, art theory and criticism.
Prerequisite: ARH 411.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 415 Exhibiting Latinx/Chicanx Art 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Examine what it means to create exhibitions of Latinx/Chicanx/Indigenous art in museums and galleries. Bridging theory and practice, the course explores the history of exhibiting Latinx/Chicanx/Indigenous Art.
Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 422 Social Art Practices 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Explore new art practices that engage with communities around them. Create and design projects that involve social interaction and participation as a mode of expression and activism.
Prerequisites: ARC 310.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 433 Advanced Site Art 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Advanced projects in Site Art that involve the presentation and creation of site specific sculptural forms.
Prerequisite: ART 333.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (9).

ART 434 Painting III 3(1-4)

Fall.
Advanced painting with an emphasis on individual development. Focus pertains to formal, pictorial and technical problems met in developed personal imagery.
Prerequisite: ART 334.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 442 Drawing IV 3(1-4)

Spring.
Emphasis on development of individual skills of perception and exploration of new techniques and materials.
Prerequisite: ART 342.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 447 Advanced Ceramics 3(1-4)

Fall, Spring, Summer.
This course explores advanced theories and techniques involved in working with clay: forming, firing, glazing, kiln design and construction.
Prerequisite: ART 274.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 470 Printmaking III 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Introduction to lithography printing using stones, aluminum plates and photo processes in black and white and multiple color techniques.
Prerequisite: ART 370.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (9).

ART 474 Personal Vision: Digital Art & Animation 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Project proposal and exploration course with particular emphasis on process strategies for developing dynamic creative projects and/or installations in digital art & animation.
Prerequisite: ART 374 or MAE 240 or MAE 251.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).

ART 476 Personal Vision: Filmworks & Photography 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Project proposal and exploration course with particular emphasis on process strategies for developing dynamic time based, film, photographic or other creative media related projects.
Prerequisite: ART 274 or ART 276 or MAE 240 or MAE 251.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).

ART 477 Personal Vision: Studio Arts 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Project proposal and exploration course with particular emphasis on process strategies for developing dynamic projects through traditional and non-traditional studio art practices.
Prerequisites: ARC 310.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 481 Visual Communication: Production Studio 3(1-4)

Spring.
Experience what professional designers do on a daily basis. Students will be challenged to conduct research, reflect, make, and communicate, both individually and in small teams.
Prerequisite: ART 381.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).

ART 482 3D Worlds & Game Environments 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Explore the rich visual history of game environments and the influences that inform their themes and styles while building the necessary components for your own unique 3D worlds.
Prerequisites: ART 274 or ME 251.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 491 Special Topics (1-5 V)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (99).

ART 494 Field Experience (1-6 V)

As Needed.
Off-campus individual experience providing transition from classroom instruction to on-the-job experience.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Senior standing and permission of instructor. Repeatable (6).

ART 495 Independent Study (1-5 V)

As Needed.
Individual tutorial experience. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Junior or senior standing. Permission of instructor.

ART 496 Cooperative Education Placement (1-4 V)

As Needed.
Cooperative Education Placement.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.

ART 497 Studio Series (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Advanced sections of studio offerings.
Prerequisite: ART 397.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

ART 500 Workshop (1-5 V)

As Needed.
Using materials and techniques based on advanced concepts and ideas.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Graduate standing and permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

ART 511 Twentieth-Century Art (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Graduate study of artists, their biographies and art, politics and culture, from the middle of the nineteenth through the end of the twentieth century.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

ART 512 Contemporary Art 3(3-0)

As Needed.
Advanced study in contemporary art and associated criticism, aesthetics and the philosophy of art through the end of the twentieth century.
Prerequisite: ART 212.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.

ART 533 Graduate Level Sculpture/Public Art 3(0-6)

As Needed.
Graduate level work in sculpture/public art including explorations in content, context, critique and techniques.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Three semesters of undergraduate sculpture or permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

ART 534 Graduate Painting 3(1.5-3)

As Needed.
Explore principles, theories, and techniques in contemporary painting: content/imagery, materials and paint handling, work in a series, exhibition, historical research, aesthetic discussion and critiques.
Prerequisite: ART 242 and ART 434.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Admission to graduate Teacher Education Program. Repeatable (99).

ART 542 Graduate Drawing 3(1-4)

As Needed.
Professional drawing practices utilizing quality papers and display presentation.
Prerequisite: ART 412.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 547 Ceramics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Graduate level work in clay including explorations in ceramic content, context, critique and techniques (forming, firing and glazing).
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Three semesters of undergraduate ceramics or permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

ART 570 Graduate Printmaking 3(0-6)

As Needed.
Graduate students will develop their personal, creative approach to image making through innovative exploration of relief, intaglio or lithography.
Prerequisite: ART 470.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.

ART 574 Graduate Digital Art 3(1.5-3)

As Needed.
Explore principles, theories, and techniques in contemporary digital art: content/imagery, work in a series, exhibition, historical research, aesthetic discussion and critiques.
Prerequisite: ART 242 and ART 334 and ART 474.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Admission to graduate Teacher Education Program. Advisor approval required for prerequisite equivalents. Repeatable (99).

ART 576 Graduate Photography 3(1.5-3)

As Needed.
Explore principles, theories, and techniques in contemporary photography: content/imagery, programs, appropriate media output, work in a series, exhibition, historical research, aesthetic discussion and critiques.
Prerequisite: ART 374 and ART 476.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Admission to graduate Teacher Education Program or permission of instructor. Advisor approval required for prerequisite equivalence. Repeatable (99).

ART 591 Special Topics (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Special Topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Graduate standing and permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

ART 597 Studio Series (1-3 V)

As Needed.
Graduate level studies.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor. Repeatable (99).

2024-2025 Catalog

Academic Catalog