studio fundamentals

The white horizontal band across the top of the matrix features studio fundamentals covering the formal elements and principles of design in a developmental sequence of eight "Units" (I through VIII). Click on one of the Unit titles and you will find the goals of the Unit along with an extended discusssion and other resources.

concepts

The blue vertical column running along the left side of the matrix refers to a series of key concepts and thematic categories for exploring the purposes and meanings of works of art. Click on a concept button and you will find a statement of the general theme, an expanded discussion of the theme, and a statement of how the theme relates to the world of art. In addition,"inquiry questions" and projects related to the concept can be found.

integrating studio fundamentals with concepts

The goal in each Unit is to integrate "the fundamentals" (e.g., materials, processes, elements, and principles) with the "content rich" themes found in the concept column. Individual project titles in the matrix are linked to full project descriptions. Click on one of the project links. Where appropriate, each project includes two objectives--a "studio fundamental" objective and a "conceptual" objective. The method behind the madness is for the student to not only become proficient in the vocabulary of design and studio art, but to gain experience right from the beginning in dealing with those ideas and broad-based themes that can serve as "content drivers" in a variety of art-making practices.

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