Foundation Studies Courses

FND201 Photography for Foundation

[2–3, 3 cr.]

This course is an introduction to digital photography, presenting the basic aesthetic and theoretical principles of photography, including composition, exposure and lighting basics. Discussions will be complemented by applied projects that explore different photography techniques based on a variety of themes. This course also introduces a range of practical techniques to photograph art and design works as well as process digital images. Students are required to obtain their own digital camera for this course.

FND202 Drawing for Foundation

[2–2, 3 cr.]

The purpose of this course is to discover the exploratory potential of visualizing thinking through hand drawing. Students’ skills in drawing as mimesis and as perception are emphasized. The course delves into traditional and conceptual transcription, using drawing as a primary mode of inquiry and perception. Through different drawing exercises, students will be introduced to the study of chiaroscuro, perspective, nature, object, materials, textures and principles of composition. Each student will be expected to complete a black book series that demonstrates their mastery of basic drawing skills.

FND231 Design Studio I-A

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio emphasizes visual perception through an initiation into the different modes of two-dimensional representation and formal analysis of the basic elements of visual language, such as point, line, shape and figure/ground structure, color, and the effects of light on forms. Exercises in this studio are intended to sharpen the student’s perception of shapes and forms, and to train the eye and the hand in the process of interpretation and representation of two dimensional visuals. Supplemented by the analysis of major artworks, this studio introduces a variety of techniques, exploring their possibilities and application.

FND232 Design Studio I-B

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio explores the basics of plastic modeling and initiates students to critical thinking through exercises that address three-dimensional formal analysis / volumetric studies and evolve from soft materials to hard materials, with an emphasis on learning wood craftsmanship. Projects explore the syntax of 3D forms and investigate the properties of materials, structure, mass, and scale, as well as the effects of light on forms. This studio stresses the importance of craftsmanship and the different techniques of modeling requiring an active use of the workshop. 

FND235 Shop Techniques

[0–2, 1 cr.]

This course is a foundational course that initiates the student to the craft of woodworking and wood joinery, metal work, molding and casting. It is co-requisite to DES I-B, and will be taught by a staff member in coordination with faculty teaching DES I-B.

Co-requisite: FND232 Design Studio I-B

FND236A Design Studio II - Visual Dynamics

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This studio investigates the conceptual dimensions of visual representation, expanding on the perceptual manifestations of two-dimensional forms. Projects focus on composition, semantics, aesthetics, and image making leading to the formulation of visual language. Projects also address the conceptualization and representation of ideas in different media. Visual expression is explored through the assimilation of a broad spectrum of pictorial imagery, and a mature engagement in drawing, painting, experimental photography and new media. The studio intends to enhance the students’ aptitude to synthesize ideas and produce two-dimensional representations that lead to the development of a personal identity.

Prerequisites: FND231 Design Studio I-A, FND232 Design Studio I-B, and FND235 Shop Techniques

FND236B Design Studio II - Formal Tectonics

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This studio focuses on the elaboration of kinetic artifacts, following a process of critical investigation into perceived phenomena and objects. Concepts such as structure, materiality, movement and form will be explored in the process of elaboration of creative mechanisms produced in the workshop. The studio will be open to a variety of approaches that include, but are not limited to, transformation from two- to three- dimensions, analytical deconstruction, construction or re-configuration and assembly of entities, as well as the exploration of structural components and relations. The studio will require an active engagement of thinking and making, and its outcome should lead to well-articulated apparatuses that materialize an engaging relationship between form and space.

Prerequisites: FND231 Design Studio I-A, FND232 Design Studio I-B, and FND235 Shop Techniques

FND236C Design Studio II - Anatomy and Space

[3–6, 6 cr.]

This studio investigates the fundamentals of perception and representation in the exploration of the human figure in its relation to space. Exercises focus on understanding anatomy and the synergy of the human body’s movement in space. The studio develops students’ skills in encoding information in two- and three- dimensional studies, while exploring the theoretical aspects of signification as it relates to the various manifestations of the human body. The studio outcome will show a mature understanding of the human body in its multifarious conditions, requiring students to visualize the poetic potential of its transformations through prosthetic extensions.

Prerequisites: FND231 Design Studio I-A, FND232 Design Studio I-B, and FND235 Shop Techniques

FND251 Digital Media

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio course is composed of two parts, starting with a basic exposure to computer platforms and the primary software used in computer graphics application. The first part addresses the basics of generating and manipulating images using digital media, and covers monochrome patterns, control and mix of colors, raster images, scanning, pixel and vector graphics. The second part introduces the basic concepts of four-dimensional design, in which properties of time and movement are explored. A range of time-based media are addressed from computer-driven technologies and digital photography to interactive media. A workshop on video editing and post production is offered as integral part of this studio.

FND281 Design Culture

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course introduces students to the interrelationship between art and design, through the exploration of different contemporary topics. The first part of the course will be a survey of major artistic movements in the 20th century, and the second part will be a theoretical exploration of the cultural and aesthetic underpinnings of the various manifestations of contemporary design developments in the applied arts from spatial design to furniture, product, graphics, fashion and cinema.