The critical first step for all NESAD students, regardless of their choice of major, is the foundation program. In your first year you will be introduced to the fundamentals of visual communication through a set of carefully designed and integrated courses. Foundation studies will teach you to perceive with freshness and insight, to analyze and solve visual problems and to execute your ideas with confidence and precision. You will be exposed to a broad range of techniques and media, from traditional to the latest digital media approaches. Foundation courses will provide the conceptual and technical orientation that will help you to succeed, both in your major program and as a professional artist or designer.
If you are an open (undeclared) major or a major in another department at Suffolk, and you would like to become a BFA candidate at NESAD, you must accomplish the following:
The entire foundation program or its equivalent is a prerequisite for entry into any of the major programs.
The letter “S” preceding a course number indicates a studio course, for which a studio fee will be assessed.
Please note: For graduate students, foundation course numbers will begin with a “5” rather than a “1.” For example, Foundation Drawing I (ADF S101) should be listed as ADF S501, etc. Undergraduate students should use the course numbers listed here in the undergraduate catalog.
3.00
This course concentrates on the traditional techniques of observational drawing. Fundamental principles and elements of drawing are introduced in structured lessons and exercises, which are supplemented by additional outside assignments. Foundation Drawing I stresses the development of visual skills as well as the broad use of drawing concepts, vocabulary, techniques and variety of materials.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
3.00
This is an introductory-level course in the basic concepts and practices of two-dimensional design and color theory. The study of color and design is supportive of all studio disciplines and is vital to the understanding of all visual media. This course features an intensive, hands-on approach to color and design as students create, modify and master the three dimensions of color (hue, value, and strength) plus the principles of design(line, shape, value, composition and image). This in-depth study is essential and underlies all of the visual arts as they are practiced today. An understanding of color and design influences all artists decisions, affecting the look, meaning and use of visual phenomena.
4.00
This course studies persuasive and expository writing in the essay form through frequent writing assignments based on critical readings of class texts and discussions. Students will also compose a research paper and study the process of writing and revising for an academic audience. Offered every semester.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Prior or concurrent drawing experience
3.00
This course introduces students to the systems of perspective developed during the Renaissance as a means of creating the illusion of 3-dimensional space on a 2-dimensional surface. Using 1-, 2-, and 3-point perspective, students will learn to effectively represent space. Basic drafting techniques and architectural scale are introduced. Both free-hand sketching and technical drawing methods will be emphasized. Manipulation of drawing through computerized scanning and digital photography included.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
3.00
This cross-disciplinary course will integrate the ideas and practices of two-dimensional design, color and drawing emphasis will be placed on understanding the creative process, exploring concepts and developing research skills. Students will undertake individual and collaborative projects in three spaces; the studio classroom, the digital world and the city at large.
ADF S151, ADF S551, ADF S166, or ADF S566
3.00
This course focuses on the fundamental elements of three-dimensional form. Line, plane and volume will be explored as students develop visual analysis and critical thinking skills in the round. The role of scale, proportion, structure, surface, light and display will be addressed, as students create forms that activate space and engage the viewer. The course will proceed from work with simple forms and techniques to more challenging and comprehensive problems addressing both additive and subtractive methods.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ENG 100 or ENG101 or ENG 103
4.00
Further study of persuasive and expository writing through the study of literary form with emphasis placed on critical reading and the revision of academic writing.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S171
3.00
This course builds on the Integrated Studio 1 experience: synthesizing fundamental visual ideas. IS 2 investigates the construction, documentation, and transformation of volumetric form, environmental space, and time. Projects will explore narrative strategies and the creation of immersive experiences. Students will develop critical and analytical skills while employing a range of traditional and digital media-including video/sound capture and editing-as they explore the creative boundaries of the classroom studio, the city of Boston, and virtual space.
Take ADF-S101 ADI-S108 OR ADI-S205;
3.00
Interior Design Communications teaches students how drawing media, observational drawing, perspective theory, color and design graphics can be integrated into the designers process. In addition to exploring contrast, accent, reflection, shade and shadow, the course underscores the importance of freehand sketching as a tool to foster intellectual inquiry and convey design concepts to a wider audience. The course introduces students to manual and digital methods for composing work for conceptual expression, technical drawing presentation, and portfolio purposes.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
Take ADI-S108 OR ADI-S205;
3.00
This course will enable the student to produce, manipulate and print 2-dimensional drawings using digital software including Computer Aided Drafting (CAD). Students will acquire the skills necessary for producing measured architectural plans, elevations and sections as well as isometric and axonometric drawing types. Fundamentals of illustrating drawings in color, light and shadow through digital programs will be introduced.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S101
3.00
This course will refine the basic visual skills developed in Foundation Drawing I (ADF S101). The elements of color and mixed media are introduced to expand technical possibilities, while more intensive work with the human figure provides exposure to gesture, structure and complex form. As students begin to develop a more sophisticated and personal approach, issues of expression and interpretation will be investigated, focusing on personal style and expression.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S143
3.00
Digital visual image generation and modification, especially when combined with traditional hand techniques, are essential skills for artists and designers of the 21st century. This course introduces techniques of image capture, manipulation and output. Weekly and longer-length assignments will address creative and innovative idea generation using these approaches.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S171
3.00
This course builds on the Integrated Studio 1 experience: synthesizing fundamental visual ideas. IS 2 investigates the construction, documentation, and transformation of volumetric form, environmental space, and time. Projects will explore narrative strategies and the creation of immersive experiences. Students will develop critical and analytical skills while employing a range of traditional and digital media-including video/sound capture and editing-as they explore the creative boundaries of the classroom studio, the city of Boston, and virtual space.
ADF S101
3.00
This course will refine the basic visual skills developed in Foundation Drawing I (ADF S101). The elements of color and mixed media are introduced to expand technical possibilities, while more intensive work with the human figure provides exposure to gesture, structure and complex form. As students begin to develop a more sophisticated and personal approach, issues of expression and interpretation will be investigated, focusing on personal style and expression.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S101, ADF S143
3.00
In this introductory course, students will learn to accurately perceive relationships of shape, form, color and value, and to translate that information through the medium of paint. In a series of in-class and outside projects on canvas, prepared paper and panel, students will explore various approaches to the use of acrylic and oil paint. Emphasis will be placed on the development of disciplined technical skills as well as the exploration of paintings potential as a medium of communication and creative visual expression.
Offered Spring Term
ADF S171
3.00
This course builds on the Integrated Studio 1 experience: synthesizing fundamental visual ideas. IS 2 investigates the construction, documentation, and transformation of volumetric form, environmental space, and time. Projects will explore narrative strategies and the creation of immersive experiences. Students will develop critical and analytical skills while employing a range of traditional and digital media-including video/sound capture and editing-as they explore the creative boundaries of the classroom studio, the city of Boston, and virtual space.
Required Courses:
3.00
This course concentrates on the traditional techniques of observational drawing. Fundamental principles and elements of drawing are introduced in structured lessons and exercises, which are supplemented by additional outside assignments. Foundation Drawing I stresses the development of visual skills as well as the broad use of drawing concepts, vocabulary, techniques and variety of materials.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S101
3.00
This course will refine the basic visual skills developed in Foundation Drawing I (ADF S101). The elements of color and mixed media are introduced to expand technical possibilities, while more intensive work with the human figure provides exposure to gesture, structure and complex form. As students begin to develop a more sophisticated and personal approach, issues of expression and interpretation will be investigated, focusing on personal style and expression.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S151, ADF S551, ADF S166, or ADF S566
3.00
This course focuses on the fundamental elements of three-dimensional form. Line, plane and volume will be explored as students develop visual analysis and critical thinking skills in the round. The role of scale, proportion, structure, surface, light and display will be addressed, as students create forms that activate space and engage the viewer. The course will proceed from work with simple forms and techniques to more challenging and comprehensive problems addressing both additive and subtractive methods.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
3.00
This is an introductory-level course in the basic concepts and practices of two-dimensional design and color theory. The study of color and design is supportive of all studio disciplines and is vital to the understanding of all visual media. This course features an intensive, hands-on approach to color and design as students create, modify and master the three dimensions of color (hue, value, and strength) plus the principles of design(line, shape, value, composition and image). This in-depth study is essential and underlies all of the visual arts as they are practiced today. An understanding of color and design influences all artists decisions, affecting the look, meaning and use of visual phenomena.
3.00
This cross-disciplinary course will integrate the ideas and practices of two-dimensional design, color and drawing emphasis will be placed on understanding the creative process, exploring concepts and developing research skills. Students will undertake individual and collaborative projects in three spaces; the studio classroom, the digital world and the city at large.
ADF S171
3.00
This course builds on the Integrated Studio 1 experience: synthesizing fundamental visual ideas. IS 2 investigates the construction, documentation, and transformation of volumetric form, environmental space, and time. Projects will explore narrative strategies and the creation of immersive experiences. Students will develop critical and analytical skills while employing a range of traditional and digital media-including video/sound capture and editing-as they explore the creative boundaries of the classroom studio, the city of Boston, and virtual space.
4.00
This course will survey the major concepts and issues of Western Art, from prehistoric to the Early Renaissance. Architecture, sculpture and paintings will be studied individually for their formal elements and visual importance, and also within their own aesthetic, historic and cultural context. Class discussion and visual analysis of works of art will encourage personal interpretation and critical thinking.
Offered Fall Term
Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
4.00
This course will survey the major concepts and issues of Western Art, from Renaissance to contemporary art. Architecture, sculpture and paintings will be studied individually for their formal elements and visual importance, and also within their own aesthetic, historic and cultural context. Class discussion and visual analysis of works of art will encourage personal interpretation and critical thinking.
Offered Spring Term
Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
3.00
This course concentrates on the traditional techniques of observational drawing. Fundamental principles and elements of drawing are introduced in structured lessons and exercises, which are supplemented by additional outside assignments. Foundation Drawing I stresses the development of visual skills as well as the broad use of drawing concepts, vocabulary, techniques and variety of materials.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S101
3.00
This course will refine the basic visual skills developed in Foundation Drawing I (ADF S101). The elements of color and mixed media are introduced to expand technical possibilities, while more intensive work with the human figure provides exposure to gesture, structure and complex form. As students begin to develop a more sophisticated and personal approach, issues of expression and interpretation will be investigated, focusing on personal style and expression.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S101, ADF S143
3.00
In this introductory course, students will learn to accurately perceive relationships of shape, form, color and value, and to translate that information through the medium of paint. In a series of in-class and outside projects on canvas, prepared paper and panel, students will explore various approaches to the use of acrylic and oil paint. Emphasis will be placed on the development of disciplined technical skills as well as the exploration of paintings potential as a medium of communication and creative visual expression.
Offered Spring Term
Intended for majors only
3.00
This course features a hands-on approach to the study of color as students create, modify and compare hues, values and strengths through the direct mixing and application of paint. Also explored will be issues of color harmony, chromatic light, space, color assimilation, and color psychology, as well as past and present views on the use of color in art and design. This intensive focus on the specific issues of color gives students experience with and flexibility in the use of color in their work.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
3.00
The focus of this course is the fundamental logic and structure of two-dimensional organization. Emphasis will be placed on the essential elements of visual language: line, shape, value and texture. Students will learn to develop dynamic approaches to visual problem solving by combining these elements into a unified whole. Skills will include technical proficiency in a variety of wet and dry media, appropriate presentation of work, and the ability to discuss work critically.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S151, ADF S551, ADF S166, or ADF S566
3.00
This course focuses on the fundamental elements of three-dimensional form. Line, plane and volume will be explored as students develop visual analysis and critical thinking skills in the round. The role of scale, proportion, structure, surface, light and display will be addressed, as students create forms that activate space and engage the viewer. The course will proceed from work with simple forms and techniques to more challenging and comprehensive problems addressing both additive and subtractive methods.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
ADF S151
3.00
This course involves comprehensive design projects which concern more advanced visual issues, executed in a wide variety of media. Decision-making in the creative process and the development of strong design concepts will be emphasized. Areas of study will include: an investigation of the real world concerns of fine artists and designers, non-Western imagery and culture, and visual social engagement.
Offered Spring Term
ADF S143
3.00
Digital visual image generation and modification, especially when combined with traditional hand techniques, are essential skills for artists and designers of the 21st century. This course introduces techniques of image capture, manipulation and output. Weekly and longer-length assignments will address creative and innovative idea generation using these approaches.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
3.00
This is an introductory-level course in the basic concepts and practices of two-dimensional design and color theory. The study of color and design is supportive of all studio disciplines and is vital to the understanding of all visual media. This course features an intensive, hands-on approach to color and design as students create, modify and master the three dimensions of color (hue, value, and strength) plus the principles of design(line, shape, value, composition and image). This in-depth study is essential and underlies all of the visual arts as they are practiced today. An understanding of color and design influences all artists decisions, affecting the look, meaning and use of visual phenomena.
3.00
This cross-disciplinary course will integrate the ideas and practices of two-dimensional design, color and drawing emphasis will be placed on understanding the creative process, exploring concepts and developing research skills. Students will undertake individual and collaborative projects in three spaces; the studio classroom, the digital world and the city at large.
ADF S171
3.00
This course builds on the Integrated Studio 1 experience: synthesizing fundamental visual ideas. IS 2 investigates the construction, documentation, and transformation of volumetric form, environmental space, and time. Projects will explore narrative strategies and the creation of immersive experiences. Students will develop critical and analytical skills while employing a range of traditional and digital media-including video/sound capture and editing-as they explore the creative boundaries of the classroom studio, the city of Boston, and virtual space.
3.00
This cross-disciplinary course will integrate the ideas and practices of two-dimensional design, color and drawing emphasis will be placed on understanding the creative process, exploring concepts and developing research skills. Students will undertake individual and collaborative projects in three spaces; the studio classroom, the digital world and the city at large.
