WINTER 2024 | DEPARTMENT OF FINE & PERFORMING ART THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – FLINT

ART 401 W1 / ART 498 W1 

MEETING TIMES: Online Asynchronous

Amy Davis

E: davisamy@umich.edu

 

OFFICE HOURS

Online By Appointment

Zoom: https://umich.zoom.us/j/4996108789

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

ART 401 / Rigorous directed study designed to produce a professional portfolio of personal work in the pursuit of a career in fine art or design, producing commis- sioned work, or professional employment.

 

ART 498 / Preparation for all art majors in professional training for a career as an artist. Topics range from presentation of individual pieces to display techniques, contract negotiation, and other business-related matters. Students work together on a group exhibition to learn about professionalism in public art projects. Successful completion of the group exhibition is required to pass the course.

 

COURSE FOCUS

This course fulfills your general education requirement for your Capstone course. You must pass the course to finish your program and earn your BFA degree. The review is heavily based on the responses submitted as part of your faculty portfolio/ exit interview by a panel of faculty.

 

INTRODUCTION

As you near the completion of your academic journey, it's crucial to pivot towards shaping your career trajectory. This phase is all about showcasing your skills, whether you're gearing up for a solo creative venture, freelance projects, or aiming for a role in a design or photography studio, or a similar environment. Having a portfolio that not only displays your work but also resonates with your future employers, gallery curators, and clients is key. Your portfolio should be a mirror of your talents, individuality, and the level of professionalism and experience you bring to the table.

This semester, we're zeroing in on giving personalized attention to your collection of works. The goal? To craft a portfolio that not only highlights your unique vision but also gives you an edge in the competitive landscape. I'm here to support and steer you towards presenting your work in the best possible light. You'll be engaged in developing new pieces and refining existing ones. In today's digital-centric art and business world, having a professionally presented digital portfolio is non-negotiable. Therefore, you'll also be working on creating an impactful digital portfolio and establishing an online presence that sticks in people's minds. The big question we'll explore is how to develop and express your creative voice in a way that's both unique and influential. 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

•   Demonstrate an understanding of the contemporary role of professional artist / designers, and arts organizations;
•   Critically discuss those current issues in professional practices;
•   Define your career focus;
•   Assess current work and identify deficiencies in communicating this focus;
•   Collect and refine existing work for digital and physical portfolio;
•   Choose and/or produce a portfolio case and presentation style;
•   Finalize physical, digital format and online portfolio;
•   Create additional business marketing pieces and resources;
•   Critically evaluate an art gallery exhibition;
•   Gain experience in presenting yourself and your work professionally;
•   Take part in a professional interview

 

COURSE STRUCTURE

          This course was created to identify the necessary elements needed to present your- self to prospective employers and clients. Every person in this class most likely has a desired direction unique to themselves. It is my objective to discuss topics in a general sense, and then guide each of you in your individual career paths. Discussions, writing responses, research/exploration of trends and job opportunities, and creation of new work will constitute the main body of work. Weekly meetings will consist of reviews of work completed during the week and discussions of topics relating to the field. Reviews will be both individual and classwide for peer feedback. This will allow little time during class meetings for actual creation and production of work. This element of your portfolio will have to take place through individual work on your own time and you should plan your schedule accordingly. Reading, research, and CANVAS discussions and posting will be required during the week. I will be available outside of class time for personal meetings concerning your direction or technical assistance with your work.

CANVAS

 CANVAS  will be used, important dates, deadlines, grades, readings, announcements and materials will be posted. Check email and the CANVAS site often.

 

REQUIRED READINGS

Readings will be provided to you via CANVAS.

The AIGA Guide to Careers in Graphic & Communication Design. Juiette Cezzar. Bloomsbury, 2018

Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist. Lisa Congdon. Chronicle Books, 2014

Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative. Austin Kleon. Workman Publishing, 2012

 

EXPECTATIONS

•   It is critical to be present and on time for all class sessions and remain the entire length of class
•   Thoughtful participation in all class discussions
•   Time commitment outside of class – some of the required work cannot be completed during class meetings, plan accordingly
•   Readings with written responses will be assigned throughout the semester
•   Professional attitude during class and interviewers

 

SUPPLIES

The following supplies are the tools of the designer. They should be readily available to you at any time throughout the semester. Additional materials will be assigned, as needed, throughout the term.

 

•   A sturdy Sketchbook, regularly reviewed
•   Small 11” x 14” pad of inexpensive tracing paper
•   Drafting/Pigment Liner Pen Set (0.1/0.3/0.5/0.7mm)
•   Pencils

X-acto knife and #11 blades, scissors

•   Metal ruler (18-24 inches is best)
•   Self-healing cut mat 12 x 18 or larger
•   Adhesive: Studiotac; rubber cement + glue stick, etc

REQUIRED TECHNOLOGY

Adobe CC: Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, AfterEffects Font Book or Linotype FontExplorer

Google Drive AND Flashdrive or data storage system Point-and-shoot Digital Camera / DSLR

 

Suggested Reading If You Do Not Have Experience With The CC Programs:

Visual Quickstart Guide for Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign CC

 

METHODS OF EVALUATION AND GRADING

The primary method of evaluation will be periodic individual and group critiques of perfor- mance and projects. Oral presentations of work in progress will be required. Mandatory individual critiques will occur at midterm and finals. A short paper and presentation documenting student research of an appropriate issue will be expected. Student performance will be evaluated with regard to process, realization, and professionalism.

 

Late assignments will result in a loss of one full letter grade on the assignment per day late.

 

GRADING SYSTEM

A   this describes excellent work in all aspects of concept and presentation, professional quality, superior verbal participation in critique, work produced in the quantity requested with on-time completion of every phase of the project.

A-  similar to above but with some minor, easily correctable flaw.

B+ this describes high quality work clearly above average in projects & participation.

B   good work, solid performance.

B-  this describes average work.

C+ similar to B- but with significant weaknesses.

C  describes below average work.

C-  this describes borderline performance.

D  poor work and participation.

F this indicates failure to complete or demonstrate understanding of a project.

 

An incomplete is occasionally given in the event of a personal emergency and is used only in an extraordinary circumstance based on major physical or mental health problems or sickness or death of a loved one. An incomplete will not be granted for your inability to organize or structure your time.

 

ESTIMATED WEIGHT OF EVALUATIONS

•   Class Work: (20%) exercises, written responses and discussions, participation in class discussions and events (10x2pts each)
•   Individual Projects: (20%) Revision of previous work, creation and production of marketing pieces, journal (20pts)
•   Mid Term Exhibition / Professional Presentation: (30%) Collaborative planning and installation of exhibition, display of curated work, documentation, promotion, and professional presentation (30pts)
•   Final Presentation: (30%) final portfolio: physical, collection of pieces, online portfolio, class portfolio presentation, exit interview (30pts)

 

ATTENDANCE

Regular participation in our online discussions and Canvas sites are required. I regularly check student log in reports. Your final grade will be lowered if you are not actively participating in our online course. This means reading the modules, turning in assignments and engaging in course materials. 

 

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR

Whether in the physical classroom or virtual, respect and courtesy for your fellow class- mates and professor are expected. If your conduct is deemed disruptive or disrespectful, you may be asked to leave, and your participation grade will be lowered.

 

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Protection of Freedom of Expression. Students are responsible for learning thoroughly the content of any course of study, but are free to take exception to the data or views present- ed and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion.

 

1. Protection Against Improper Disclosure. Protection against improper disclosure of in- formation regarding student views, beliefs, and political associations which instructors acquire in the course of their work as instructors, advisors, and counselors is consid- ered a professional obligation.
2. Protection Against Improper Academic Evaluation. Students can expect protection, through orderly procedures, against prejudice or capricious evaluation. Students are also expected to respect the academic freedom of faculty and their rights and respon- sibilities to determine curriculum and evaluate academic performance.
3. If any student has a grievance regarding academic practices and policies, there are established procedures within each college and school of the University of Michigan- Flint for resolving such problems. See the appropriate school or college section of the Catalog for a statement of the academic grievance procedure to be followed.
4. For conflicts involving a faculty or staff member, students are encouraged to try to re- solve the matter through consultation with that individual. If the conflict is of a discrimi- natory or sexually harassing nature, the student should consult with the Institutional Equity Specialist or the Office of the Dean of Students. Complaints against a faculty or staff member must be filed with the Institutional Equity Specialist.

 

Review your entire rights and responsibilities here: http://catalog.umflint.edu/content.php?catoid=28&navoid=3045#Student_Rights_and_Re- sponsibilities

 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Intellectual integrity is the most fundamental value of an academic community. Students and faculty alike are expected to uphold the highest standards of honesty and integrity in their scholarship. No departure from the highest standards of intellectual integrity, whether by cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, falsification, or aiding and abetting dishonesty by an- other person, can be tolerated in a community of scholars. Such transgressions may result in action ranging from reduced grade or failure of a course, to expulsion from the University or revocation of degree.

 

DISABILITY STATEMENT

The University of Michigan–Flint strives to make learning experiences as accessible as possible and complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American with Disabilities Act. The university provides individuals with disabilities reasonable ac- commodations to participate in educational programs, activities, and services. Students with disabilities requiring accommodations to participate in class activities or meet course requirements must self-identify with Disability and Accessibility Support Services as early as possible at (810) 762-3456 or dassflint@umich.edu. The office is located in 264 Univer- sity Center, inside the CAPS Office. Once your eligibility for an accommodation has been determined you will be issued an Accommodation Letter. Please present this letter to each faculty member in each class at the beginning of the term, or at least two weeks prior to the need for the accommodation (test, project, etc.).

 

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES

It is my intention to support the full participation of all students in the learning process of this class. I have incorporated a variety of instruction techniques and evaluation methods in the course process. In spite of these efforts, situations may occur in which the learn- ing style of individual students in not met by the instructional climate. It is my expectation

that students who require specific or additional supports in acquiring the course content or demonstrating their achievement of the objective will inform me of such needs immediately. Professionals in the office of Accessibility Services in 264 University Center, 810-762-3456, or dassflint@umich.edu

 

https://www.umflint.edu/disabilitysupportservices

 

RESOURCES

It is my intention to help each student reach their maximum potential in teaching this class. I want everyone to succeed and can be available for any additional support, critiquing, or concerns. I can be reached during my office hours or via email and will do my best to respond to your needs as soon as possible.

 

Many students are unaware of the diverse services available to them as a UM student through the Student Success Center. Some of these services include the Academic Advis- ing Center, Career Development Center, Tutoring, Writing Center, Counseling and Health Services, etc. Become familiar with these services and utilize them as necessary at:

 

https://www.umflint.edu/studentsuccess/student-success-center

Proposed Course schedule (subject to change)

Week 1: January 8-14

• Introduction to the Course
• Overview of course structure and objectives
• Discuss readings and supply list
• Assignment: Initial portfolio review - students to submit a collection of their current works for initial feedback

Week 2: January 15-21

• Focus on Professionalism in Art
• Reading: "Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist"
• Assignment: Reflective essay on personal career goals and current artistic focus

Week 3: January 22-28

• Developing a Unique Artistic Voice
• Group discussion on personal styles and artistic influences
• Assignment: Create a piece that reflects individual style

Week 4: January 29 - February 4

• Business Side of Art
• Reading: "The AIGA Guide to Careers in Graphic & Communication Design"
• Assignment: Research and write about a successful artist/designer in your field

Week 5: February 5-11

• Portfolio Development
• Workshop on selecting and refining works for portfolio
• Assignment: Select pieces for portfolio and start refining them

Week 6: February 12-18

• Digital Presence for Artists
• Discussion on the importance of digital portfolios and social media presence
• Assignment: Begin creating a digital portfolio

Week 7: February 19-25

• Midterm Review Week
• Individual portfolio reviews and feedback sessions
• Midterm Project: Group exhibition planning and role assignments

Week 8: February 26 - March 3

• Marketing for Artists
• Lecture on marketing strategies for artists
• Assignment: Create a marketing piece for your art (e.g., business card, brochure)

Week 9: March 4-10

• Professional Presentation Skills
• Workshop on presentation skills and portfolio case design
• Assignment: Prepare a presentation of your portfolio

Week 10: March 11-17

• Preparing for the Group Exhibition
• Group meeting and progress check on exhibition planning
• Assignment: Work on individual contributions for the group exhibition

Week 11: March 18-24

• Critiquing Art
• Seminar on how to critique art professionally
• Assignment: Write a critique on a fellow student's work

Week 12: March 25-31

• Finalizing Portfolios
• Review and final touches on digital and physical portfolios
• Assignment: Finalize portfolio for review

Week 13: April 1-7

• Group Exhibition Set-Up
• Final preparations and set-up for the group exhibition
• Assignment: Complete set-up and be ready for the exhibition

Week 14: April 8-14

• Final Presentations and Exhibition
• Final class presentations
• Group exhibition and professional review

End of Course: April 15

• Submission of final portfolios
• Exit interviews and course wrap-up