Drawing from Nature/Islands
Art 106
An exploration of the intersections of science and art.

Interim – January 2009
Mary Griep
Office #306 Dittmann 786-3055 (During sabbatical 645-5331)

GE Credit; Artistic Studies (ALS-A)
Major Credit: Art and Art History
Prerequisite: None

Description: This course will take place at the Gerace Research Center, San Salvador, Bahamas. San Salvador is a small Caribbean island boasting a great diversity of marine and terrestrial habitats. While there we will explore intersections between art and science, as you develop basic drawing skills. Emphasis will be placed on observation of the natural world. Lectures and field trips will be coordinated with the Island Biology (Bio 287) class.

This course includes at least four field trips each week, some of which may be strenuous. All participants must know how to swim and be comfortable in the water. Students who have Scuba certification will be able to participate in a number of ocean dives. Up to 6 students may take their Advanced Open Water Certification dives while on San Salvador. (DAN insurance is required for all divers.)

Goals:

1. Develop skills of observation.
2. Explore intersections between art and science.
3. Develop basic drawing skills to describe plant forms, animal forms, and landforms using line, value, form, shape, perspective and color.
4. To understand the historic links between art and science and how that relationship has changed since the Renaissance.
5. To work with science students in identifying an area of research and find ways of collaborating to flesh out the research.
6. To develop an appreciation for the fragility of the island ecosystem.

Work required:

- One 30-minute presentation presented to group on San Salvador on a topic chosen and prepared before arrival on the island.
- A portfolio of observational drawings using line, value, form, shape, perspective, color and composition.
- A cabinet of curiosities consisting of found objects as well as drawings of those objects or other related objects.
- A final project of the student's choice consisting of a series of drawings, matted for presentation in a final exhibition. A written artist statement to accompany the final drawings.
- Various readings from course packet.
- Each student is expected to attend all planned events, including lectures by instructors, field trips, and group discussions.