Fine Art Curriculum.

LAAFA’s Fine Art curriculum focuses on drawing and painting from direct observation combined with contemporary critique-based methodology. Students will leave after three years of study with the knowledge necessary to alter the landscape of artistic expression in today’s art world and the confidence to pursue a lasting career as a successful, thought provoking, professional artist.

LAAFA is currently not accepting new students. We are in the process of obtaining approval for new programs to start in 2024. Please email us if you are interested in learning more.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Degree in Fine Art

The 180-credit Bachelor of Fine Arts degree is designed to combine a solid, substantial foundation of traditional painting and drawing skills with the critical thinking and communication skills essential for success in today’s complex art world. The required credits are comprised of the following:

Studio Core Classes – 126
General Education – 27
Business of Art – 6
Art History – 21

Certificate of Fine Arts

The 153-credit Certificate in Painting is a program for students who do not wish to pursue a BFA degree. The three-year Certificate program includes the same balanced curriculum without the liberal arts and sciences requirements. The required credits are comprised of the following:

Studio Core Classes – 126
Business of Art – 6
Art History – 21

1-Year Drawing Diploma

The 1-year Intensive Drawing Track’s sequential curriculum focuses on drawing from direct observation. Students will have a working proficiency of the human form as it relates to traditional representation in drawing. In addition, students will learn solid draftsmanship and technical skills in Classic Academic and Figure Construction, which will give students a well-developed understanding of line, form, structure, shadow, tone, light, edges, and the human anatomy. The curriculum for this track mirrors the courses outlined in the first year of the degree and certificate fine art programs. Exclusive of art history, students in this track are not required to take any additional general education courses. Students may apply to matriculate to the degree or certificate program.

Studio Core Classes – 46.5
Non-Studio Core Classes – 6

Click here to view curriculum.

18-Month Fine Art Fundamentals Diploma

This 18-month sequential curriculum focuses on drawing and painting from direct observation. Students will have a working proficiency of the human form as it relates to traditional representation in drawing and painting. Students will learn solid draftsmanship and technical skills in Classic Academic and Figure Construction, which will give students a well-developed understanding of line, form, structure, shadow, tone, light, edges, and the human anatomy. In addition, students will explore the fundamental practices of painting. Working from the live model, students will be challenged to refine their ability to simplify what they see and create paintings that feature strong structure, clear value organization and elegant simplification. The curriculum for this track mirrors the courses outlined in the first year and a half of the degree and certificate fine art programs. Exclusive of art history, students in this track are not required to take any additional general education courses. Students may apply to matriculate to the degree or certificate program.

Studio Core Classes – 69
Art History – 12

Click here to view curriculum.

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 General Education Transfer of Credits

YEAR 1 QUARTER 1 FOUNDATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

DW1010 Drawing 1A: Beginning Form and Light

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: NA

This course is an introduction to drawing. Students will learn how to depict the illusion of three-dimensional objects through the language of linear and tonal drawing. The subjects of the sphere, cube, cone, cylinder, egg and cylindrical ring are possible subjects that will serve as foundational elements for the later study of casts and the human figure in subsequent courses in the curriculum. This course will introduce the student to ideas of linear construction using complex cross-contour analysis of form. Students will also be introduced to the properties of light and shadow necessary in the depiction of form. In the second half of the term, the course will proceed to linear and tonal investigation of more complex, hybrid geometric forms.

DW2010 Drawing 1B: Sight-Size Drawing

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: NA

This course will introduce the student to the first step in a process of drawing from direct observation using the classical Sight-Size Technique. The course will begin with learning how to make an accurate silhouette (block –in) of inanimate objects and will then proceed to complete linear drawings of the Cast, in which both primary and secondary forms are represented in block-in language. Proportions, line quality, and the abstraction of 3-dimensional objects as 2 dimensional shapes will be applied to each drawing in order to create a block-in that is accurate enough to continue to a finish. Students will resolve themselves to the study of drawing in the Sight-Size method with the understanding that comparative measuring/observational drawing will be the focus of Drawing 2B in the following quarter.

DW1020 Figure Construction 1: The Gesture

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: NA

Figure Construction 1 will primarily focus on the Gesture of human form and introduce students to the abstraction of human forms into simple geometric shapes, volumes and solids. Through the repetition of many quick studies, the student will understand the idea of rhythm, flow, fluidity as well as the basic proportions and forms of the human figure. This course will emphasize the ability to use gesture drawing as a foundation for proportion, posture, balance and weight distribution. Students will also learn to see gesture drawing as a planning stage for more elaborate drawings made later in the curriculum.

DS1080 Perspective 1

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: NA

In an introductory drawing course with an emphasis on linear perspective, students will learn how to draw three-dimensional objects in one, two, and three-point perspective, gaining a thorough understanding of the principles, theories and applications of perspective techniques.

SC1040 Anatomy/Ecorché 1

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: NA

Anatomy/Écorché 1 is the first of two classes that are intended to give students a thorough understanding of the superficial anatomy of the human form. Students will sculpt both the bones and muscles of the entire figure. Through a series of rigorous weekly lectures, students will be able to understand the movements, proportions, and form of individual muscles and bones as well as the human figure in its entirety. The knowledge gained in this class will be applicable to any media or style.

DS1050 Composition 1: Structure/Visual Dynamics/Aesthetic-Psychological Division

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: NA

Composition 1 will begin to teach the student the difference between simply drawing what they see and organizing the elements of design within a picture plane. Principles of contrast, balance and imbalance, tension and release, harmony, placement and division of the frame for aesthetics, dynamism, reading order, and innate psychological effects of design are the main emphases. Students will be introduced to the primary and secondary elements of design and begin to understand how to use them to fluently move their audiences gaze around a piece and orchestrate meaning.

YEAR 1 QUARTER 2 FOUNDATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

DW3010 Drawing 2A: Intermediate Form and Light

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 1A, Drawing 1B

This course will provide a continued examination of Light and Shade Theory, as well as the process/technique of rendering form. More complex ideas about Light and Shade Theory will be discussed. Using challenging subject matter such as plaster casts and other still life objects, students will begin to hone their ability to control edges, compose values of light and shadow, and create a value hierarchy. Studies may also include drawing from photography to understand subtle transitions in value.

DW4010 Drawing 2B: Comparative-Observational Drawing

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 1A, Drawing 1B

This course is a continued examination of the processes used to create a drawing from direct observation, and the measuring techniques used to do so. This course will apply the sensibilities learned from drawing 1B and apply it to challenging subject matter. While Drawing 1B focused on the Sight-Size method of drawing. Drawing 2B will emphasize comparative measuring/observational drawing techniques. Study will begin with carefully measured linear drawings of Greek and Roman casts and will proceed to complex linear drawings of the live model, with an emphasis on observational measuring. Students will also begin to learn how to abstract the human form into geometric shape in the French Academic block-in technique. While the emphasis of this course is on accurate linear drawing, some inclusion of Light and Shade Theory may occur in the latter half of the term.

DW2020 Figure Construction 2: The Figure as Simple Geometric Forms

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Figure Construction 1, Perspective 1, Anatomy 1

Figure Construction 2 will solidify students’ understanding of the geometric conception of the human figure. Students will understand the human form as a series of interlocking cylinders, cones, spheres, cubes, rectilinear solids, ovoid masses, as well as complex, hybrid geometric volumes. This course will also introduce the student to anatomical construction of muscle and bone groups, including discussions of Bony Landmarks. There will also be strong emphasis on the usage of an established proportion system, selected by the instructor, to be utilized throughout the term. Emphasis of this course will fall on natural linear drawing of the form as opposed to tonal development of the form. Line quality/variation will also play an integral role in this course, as well as the continued use of Gesture drawing as a building block from the previous course, Figure Construction 1.

SC2040 Anatomy/Ecorché 2

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Anatomy 1

Students will analyze the important muscles needed to create convincing figures and will also learn about the surface anatomy, such as the fat distribution and the fasciae that surrounds every inch of the living form. Students will better understand the living form of the model and create more easily from the imagination, but most importantly to have the confidence to edit the living model and therefore interpret more poetically what he/she sees and make the drawing or painting more personal.

DS2050 Composition 2: Tones, Shapes, Viewpoints and Mood

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Composition 1

Composition 2 will teach the students how to key values and use alternative points of view to create emotive states and conceptual settings within a piece. This class will also teach the student the various degrees of the illusion of depth and how they contribute to mood and meaning.

YEAR 1 QUARTER 3 FOUNDATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

DW5010 Drawing 3A: Advanced Form and Light

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 2A, Drawing 2B

This course will require the completion of a mid-sized/large rendering of the full human figure demonstrating an advanced understanding of Form and Light. Emphasis will be on moving from planning stages of the drawing, through studies of the pose, and into the final execution of a finished piece. Final presentation must demonstrate fine craftsmanship in the drawing practice and may also include matting and framing. Emphasis of this course is on the rendering the human form itself, and not of background elements or the figure as a spatial element, which will occur in Drawing 4.

DW6010 Drawing 3B: Precision Portrait Drawing

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 2A, Drawing 2B

Focusing on the complexity of the human head, students will engage in the act of portrait drawing with an emphasis on precision and capturing the idiosyncratic proportions, features, and likeness of an individual’s face. Lectures will focus on the structure of the features as derived from classical Greco/Roman aesthetics as well as the Italian Renaissance, and how to utilize their structures in decoding/understanding more naturalized forms as observed on the life model. Discussions will include in-depth form concepts applicable to painting and sculpture. Students will experience the possibilities of drawing the head from different vantage points, angles and perspectives, and will consider the varying art historical periods associated with these differences. Study will also include the incorporation of the hand as part of the portrait. This course will require a synthesis of the student’s capacity for linear drawing as well an application of their knowledge of light and shade theory and rendering techniques. This course will develop block-in abilities for shape recognition. Discussions will include in-depth form concepts applicable to painting and sculpture.

DW3020 Figure Construction 3: Anatomy Construction

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Figure Construction 2, Anatomy 1, Anatomy 2

Figure Construction 3 will solidify understanding of anatomical construction and will synthesize students’ experience of drawing the figure from life with their studies in anatomy. Students will learn the construction of all bone and muscle groups and how these relate to one other and the human form in its entirety. This course is intended as a continued study in anatomy and provides the opportunity to apply and deepen knowledge of the Musculoskeletal System through a series of lectures. Study will also provide the student with an opportunity to draw the figure from life with an emphasis on anatomical drawing, form and construction.

SP1030 Sculpture 1

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 1A, Drawing 1B

The aim of this course will be to introduce students to the 3-dimensional representation of form. Through the re-creation of plaster casts from LAAFA’s cast collection students will learn to connect the study of the illusionistic creation of form to the actual physical articulation of those forms.

AH1070 Art History Survey Part 1: Prehistory through the Etruscans

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: NA

This art history survey will cover the history of western art from prehistoric times to the Etruscans.

YEAR 1 QUARTER 4 FOUNDATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

DW7010 Drawing 4: The Figure in a Spatial Environment

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 3A, Drawing 3B, Perspective 1

Using the knowledge learned from all previous drawing courses as well studies in perspective, composition, figure construction, and anatomy, students will learn how to convincingly place a figure within a spatial environment and will be expected to complete an ambitious drawing of such. Emphasis of this course is on the figure as a harmonious element within a believable space; a figure which both creates a dynamic element to the composition in the Figure-Ground relationship, yet which is also a cohesive part of the whole space. This course will emphasize the theory of Atmospheric Perspective, which will stress changes in value, edge quality, contrast, line quality, detail and texture to achieve the illusion of space.

DW4020 Figure Construction 4: Constructional & Anatomical Drawing

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Figure Construction 3, Anatomy 1, Anatomy 2

Figure Construction 4 will synthesize the act of drawing the figure from life with the study of anatomy. Using the model as reference, students will utilize knowledge gained from previous Figure Construction and Anatomy classes to demonstrate understanding of the human figure in 3 stages:

The structure of the skeleton; students will draw the bones of the model in a natural pose with accuracy and precision.
The muscular system: students will carefully draw the muscular system, while remaining faithful to the depiction of the model’s pose.
The Form: students will create a finished drawing of the figure that portrays how light reveals the deeper layers of form.

Anatomical and proportional accuracy will take priority over direct observation.

PT1230 Methods and Materials in Painting

1.0 credit | Prerequisites: NA

Methods and Materials will give students a thorough knowledge of art materials such as the composition and permanency of pigments, binders, vehicles and supports, as well as discussion about artist’s varnishes. Methods and Materials will also offer technical/creative strategies of brush techniques and the underlying pragmatic logic and origins of painting approaches such as grisaille, imprimatura, various limited palettes, and fat over lean.

SP2030 Sculpture 2

1.5 credits | Prerequisites: Sculpture 1, Drawing 2A, Drawing 2B, Figure Construction 2, Anatomy 1, Anatomy 2

The objective of this course is to transfer the form-making skills learned in Sculpture 1 from the plaster cast to the live model. Working from a live model in progressively longer poses students will continue to develop their understanding of 3-dimensional form and refine their ability to organize and represent it.

DS2080 Perspective 2

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Perspective 1

Perspective 2 will teach students the ability to sketch and draw in free-hand perspective, and to conceptualize ideas using simplified, rapid perspective drawing techniques. Importance is placed on the ability to conceptualize and sketch spatial environments in dimensional language. These skills are essential in the ability to work effectively with contemporary perspective software programs, commonly in use in the Entertainment Art field.

AH2070 Art History Survey Part 2: Rome through the Italian City-States

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Art History Survey Part 1

This art history survey will cover the history of art in Rome through the Italian City-States.

YEAR 2 QUARTER 1 FOUNDATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT1150 Painting 1A: Beginning Indirect Painting-Monochromatic

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 4

Painting 1A is the first class in the “A” series concerned with indirect painting techniques. This course will utilize a monochromatic palette. Students will paint in “Grisaille” (black and white) and “Brunaille” (Raw Umber and White) in the creation of monochromatic figure studies. This course will focus on the foundational underpainting techniques of imprimatura, scumbling and velatura. Students will utilize these historical techniques to achieve a full range of values with an extremely limited palette. Painting 1A is designed to transition students familiar with dry media drawing techniques into the realm of painting. This course will also include introductory discussions about materials and techniques relevant to the practice of indirect painting; pigments, mediums, supports and the use of a Ground.

PT2150 Painting 1B: Beginning Direct Painting-Monochromatic

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Drawing 4

Painting 1B is the first class in the “B” series concerned with direct methods of painting. The class will focus on grisaille and monochromatic painting techniques, using black/white (grisaille) or raw umber/white (called “brunaille”). Painting 1B is designed to teach the student how to properly mix two colors of paint into appropriate values. Students will explore differences between short duration painted studies (Alla Prima) and longer, more extended paintings. Some classroom studies and homework assignments will be devoted to the historical tradition of Direct Painting/Alla Prima painting in which students learn how to apply paint/block-in/mass-in liberally and freely, without concern for drawing. This course will stress the concept of planar, faceted painting in an attempt to create the illusion of turning form on the figure. Emphasis will be on the concept of brush strokes as structural planes, with the intention of creating the illusion of turning form. Instruction will also include introductory discussions of the basic painting materials of paint, brushes, mediums and supports, as well as the use of simple “Ground” colors.

DS1060 Color Theory

2.5 credits | Prerequisites: Composition 2

Color and light theory will introduce the student to the properties of color and how color is affected by light. Students will learn how to mix color to achieve desired hue, saturation, and value. Students will work with Color Wheel systems. Students will also study the mixing of “strings” of paint to understand how a color can transition through a value scale or from one chroma to another chroma.

DW2180 Short Pose Analytical Life Drawing

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Figure Construction 4, Anatomy 2

This course will develop the student’s ability to create convincing, volumetric drawings of the figure within a small-time frame. By analyzing the construction and mechanics of the body, students will gain a solid grounding that will allow them to begin drawing figures from imagination. Students will also be encouraged to develop their own unique style of drawing, an invaluable trait in the Entertainment Art field. Individual critiques will address strengths and weaknesses of drawing technique.

AH3070 Art History Survey Part 3: Humanism through Reformation

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Art History Survey Part 2

This art history survey will explore aspects of the history of Western European art during the period between the fifteenth century and the seventeenth century.

YEAR 2 QUARTER 2 FOUNDATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT3150 Painting 2A:Intermediate Indirect Painting-Limited Palette

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 1A, Painting 1B, Color and Light Theory

Painting 2A is the second class in the “A” series concerned with indirect painting techniques. This course will introduce techniques of glazing, scumbling and velatura with a limited color palette. Students will have 10 weeks to finish two paintings. Each painting will start with the foundational underpainting technique of “imprimatura”, using an earth tone color. Students will be introduced to the second layer, the piambura. Paintings will proceed to a final layer using glazing, scumbling, and velatura techniques. Emphasis of this course will also be on synthesizing indirect painting techniques with a strong facility of drawing as well as exploration of limited color.

PT4150 Painting 2B: Intermediate Direct Painting Methods-Limited Palette

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 1A, Painting 1B, Color Theory

Painting 2B is the second class in the “B” series concerned with direct methods of painting. Students will primarily work with the “Alla Prima” approach and will learn a simple method for harmonizing a limited, earth tone palette. Painting 2B will teach the student how to mix paint to control Value and Temperature, with minimal interest in controlling specific color. Some classroom studies and homework assignments will be devoted to the historical tradition of Direct Painting/Alla Prima painting in which students learn how to apply paint/block-in/mass-in liberally and freely, without concern for drawing. As in Painting 1A, this course will continue to stress the idea of planar/faceted analysis of form as a way of achieving the illusion of turning form. Near the end of the quarter, students will have the opportunity to extend the limited palette by one or two colors in preparation for Painting 3B. This course will also include discussions on blending techniques later in the term.

DS3050 Composition 3: Color

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Composition 2, Painting 1A, Painting 1B, Color Theory

Intended to expand on the ideas presented in Color and Light Theory, Composition 3 will use the lessons learned from the previous Composition classes and explore their interaction with the realm of Color. Students will learn ways to harmonize color and control saturation, utilize it to influence the hierarchy of focal points, affect the sense of depth, and begin to employ color to affect mood and meaning.

DW2190 Heads, Hands, and Costume Drawing

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Figure Construction 4, Anatomy 2

The aim of this class is to facilitate a student’s ability to accurately sketch heads, hands, and drapery without the use of direct observation. Rather than focusing on the rendering of form, this class will give students a thorough understanding of construction, proportions, and anatomy of the human head and hands, as well as fold characteristics of certain fabrics.

AH4070 Art History Survey Part 4: The Enlightenment and Entry into the Modern World

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Art History Survey Part 3

This course will explore aspects of the history of Western European art during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

YEAR 2 QUARTER 3 FINE ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT5150 Painting 3A: Advanced Indirect Painting Methods-Extended Palette

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 2A, Painting 2B

Painting 3A is the third class in the “A” series concerned with indirect painting techniques. The course will introduce the student to glazing, scumbling, and velatura using a full-color palette. Students will have 10 weeks to finish two paintings. Emphasis of this course will also be on synthesizing painting with a strong facility of drawing. Students will be required to create a preliminary under-drawing for their paintings and develop the painting through the stages of the historical Verdaccio technique: imprimatura, piambura, and overpainting in full color. Finishing glazes may be used to bring the painting to completion.

PT6150 Painting 3B: Advanced Direct Painting Methods-Extended Palette

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 2A, Painting 2B

Painting 3B is the third class in the “B” series concerned with direct methods of painting. This course will reinforce the techniques imparted in Painting 2B and will introduce the student to direct painting with a full color palette. Emphasis will be placed on strong preliminary drawing skills and working with paint in an organized, faceted, planar analysis of perceived forms. Some classroom studies and homework assignments will be devoted to the historical tradition of Direct Painting/Alla Prima painting in which students learn how to apply paint/block-in/mass-in liberally and freely, without concern for drawing. Discussion of blending techniques will occur early in the term. While emphasis will remain on well-perceived values and balance of temperature relationships, students will begin to see how variations in chroma can enrich the painting process. Students will be required to explore an extended, full-color palette while maintaining clean color mixtures and color harmony throughout the composition. Students will have the opportunity to explore the full color palette through the process of quick studies as well as extended paintings.

DS4050 Composition 4: Visual Communication

2.0 credits | Prerequisites: Composition 3, Painting 2A, Painting 2B

Using the knowledge gained from the three previous composition classes, students will create their own compositions using more than one figure. Composition 4 will encourage the student to clarify a concept and design a composition that represents it best. Students will be challenged to analyze the action between multiple actors/elements and create images in a finished form that consider all the tools of the previous composition classes. Composition 4 aims to teach students how to communicate visually with clarity or suggest poetically.

AH5070 Art History Survey Part 5: Modernism and World War (through WWII)

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Art History Survey Part 4

This course will explore aspects of the history of Western European art during the nineteenth and early twentieth century.

YEAR 2 QUARTER 4 FINE ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT7150 Painting 4A: Indirect Painting-Advanced Methods

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 3A, Painting 3B

Painting 4A is the last class in the “A” series. The course will encourage students to make unique and individual painting choices as they achieve full facility with Indirect Painting methods. Students will select a relevant painter, or several, from the history of art and/or contemporary art to emulate. Through research and analysis of these artists, students will become familiar with their techniques and processes including choices of support types, ground colors, palette, and layers used in the underpainting/overpainting process. Students will combine aesthetics and methods to develop their own unique combination of paint handling, painting techniques, compositional choices and narrative choices. This course is intended not only to solidify understanding of Indirect Painting but also to help the student innovate on the indirect painting process. Further, this course will help the student to produce original work, and to develop more individuality in their voice as a painter.

PT8150 Painting 4B: Direct Painting - Figure in a Spatial Environment

3.5 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 3A, Painting 3B, Composition 4

Painting 4B is the last class in the “B” series. Students will synthesize the knowledge gained from previous painting, drawing and composition classes. This course will require the student to complete an illusionistic painting of a figure within a spatially convincing environment. Students will learn how to create a finished painting from rough compositional sketches, through color studies, and into the completion of a single, complex painting of the full figure in its relationship to the background, surrounding space/environment. Discussion of Atmospheric Perspective will focus on issues of color, value and contrast to convey spatial depth. Emphasis will be placed on strong drawing skills and working with paint in an organized, faceted, planar analysis of perceived forms and spatial passages using a full-color palette. Discussion of techniques for unifying and transitioning between planes will also be included. While emphasis will remain on well-perceived values and balance of temperature relationships, students will further their ability to see how variations in full-chroma can enrich the painting process.

AH6070 Art History Survey Part 6: Post-War: Art in the Contemporary World (1945 and after)

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Art History Survey Part 5

This course will explore aspects of the history of art during the twentieth century.

YEAR 3 QUARTER 1 FINE ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT1960 Fine Art 1A: Critical Thinking; Creating a Coherent Body of Work 1

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 4A, Painting 4B

This is the first class of a four-part thesis studio course that will enhance the student’s critical thinking skills for the creation of a coherent body of work. By developing the student’s awareness of their individual aesthetic values, what their content is communicating, and the effect their compositional choices are having on the viewer, students will develop a set of parameters that will inform the creation of a body of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will engage in research, analysis and writing about contemporary/historical art theories and practices, as well as stylistic context.

PT1970 Fine Art 1B: Process Development 1

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Painting 4A, Painting 4B

This is the first class of a four-part thesis studio course that will serve as an aid to the Fine Art Critical Thinking classes. As students are encouraged to make creative choices in regard to mediums, tools, and technical application, they will further refine the parameters of their body of work and develop a personal process for creating pieces. Process Development will address the student’s individual technical concerns that may arise during the creation of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will research and analyze historical and contemporary art practices in order to think, speak and write more clearly about their craft.

TR9010 Studio/Gallery Tour

1.0 credit | Prerequisites: Painting 4A, Painting 4B

This class will provide students a view of the contemporary figurative galleries in Los Angeles as well as observing the working habits of prominent local artists through the experience of studio visits. Students will visit professional artists’ studios as well as visit different galleries and attend gallery openings, giving students a robust experience of the L.A. professional gallery scene and culture of professional painting. Each visit will be summarized by a short paper, articulating the student’s ideas, feelings, and critical analysis of the artist’s work in its relationship to contemporary and historical art theories.

PH3580 Semiotics and Isms in Contemporary Theory

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Art History Survey Part 6

This class will provide students with a strong foundation in the theoretical subjects that provide tools for analysis of the contemporary world, including semiotics, Marxism, psychoanalysis, post-structuralism, feminist and queer theory. While these modes of critical inquiry greatly enhance understanding of social life in the broadest possible sense, this course will specifically involve analyzing multiple forms of cultural production such as visual culture (including commercial imagery and film) and writing that represents various genres and disciplines. The student will develop verbal and written analytical skills with the goal of enriching quality of thought, discourse and artistic production.

YEAR 3 QUARTER 2 FINE ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT2960 Fine Art 2A: Critical Thinking; Creating a Coherent Body of Work 2

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 1A, Fine Art 1B

This is the second class of a four-part thesis studio course that will enhance the student’s critical thinking skills for the creation of a coherent body of work. By developing the student’s awareness of their individual aesthetic values, what their content is communicating, and the effect their compositional choices are having on the viewer, students will develop a set of parameters that will inform the creation of a body of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will engage in research, analysis and writing about contemporary/historical art theories and practices, as well as stylistic context.

PT2970 Fine Art 2B: Process Development 2

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 1A, Fine Art 1B

This is the second class of a four-part thesis studio course that will serve as an aid to the Fine Art Critical Thinking classes. As students are encouraged to make creative choices in regard to mediums, tools, and technical application, they will further refine the parameters of their body of work and develop a personal process for creating pieces. Process Development will address the student’s individual technical concerns that may arise during the creation of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will research and analyze historical and contemporary art practices in order to think, speak and write more clearly about their craft.

PH1580 Theoretical Pursuit of Contemporary Art Making 1

1.0 credit | Prerequisites: Semiotics and Ism’s in Contemporary Theory

This is the first class of a two-part course that encourages students to think critically about art making. It will connect the craft that they are learning to a structured thought process. Students will be encouraged to learn about and explore different contemporary theories and artists.

PT1990 Mentorship 1

1.5 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 1A, Fine Art 1B

This class gives students an opportunity to study with a professional working artist that they admire. Each week students will converse with an artist of their choice in a one-on-one setting and articulate what they specifically need help with. Mentorship 1 will potentially give students a chance to make a professional connection with a successful and prominent artist. Students will become familiar with the artist’s professional and business practices as well as with their technical process.

YEAR 3 QUARTER 3 FINE ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT3960 Fine Art 3A: Critical Thinking; Creating a Coherent Body of Work 3

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 2A, Fine Art 2B

This is the third class of a four-part thesis studio course that will enhance the student’s critical thinking skills for the creation of a coherent body of work. By developing the student’s awareness of their individual aesthetic values, what their content is communicating, and the effect their compositional choices are having on the viewer, students will develop a set of parameters that will inform the creation of a body of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will engage in research, analysis and writing about contemporary/historical art theories and practices, as well as stylistic context.

PT3970 Fine Art 3B: Process Development 3

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 2A, Fine Art 2B

This is the third class of a four-part thesis studio course that will serve as an aid to the Fine Art Critical Thinking classes. As students are encouraged to make creative choices in regard to mediums, tools, and technical application, they will further refine the parameters of their body of work and develop a personal process for creating pieces. Process Development will address the student’s individual technical concerns that may arise during the creation of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will research and analyze historical and contemporary art practices in order to think, speak and write more clearly about their craft.

PH2580 Theoretical Pursuit of Contemporary Art Making 2

1.0 credit | Prerequisites: Theoretical Pursuit of Contemporary Art Making 1

This is the second and final class of a two-part course that encourages students to think critically about art making. It will connect the craft that they are learning to a structured thought process. Students will be encouraged to learn about and explore different contemporary theories and artists.

PT2990 Mentorship 2

1.5 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 2A, Fine Art 2B

This class gives students an opportunity to study with a professional working artist that they admire. Each week students will converse with an artist of their choice in a one-on-one setting and articulate what they specifically need help with. Mentorship 2 will potentially give students a chance to make a professional connection with a successful and prominent artist. Students will become familiar with the artist’s professional and business practices as well as with their technical process.

BS1370 Business of Art 1

3.0 credits | Prerequisites: Studio/Gallery Tour

Through a variety of instructors that currently work in their respective fields, students will learn of the practical necessities of being a financially successful fine artist. Topics will include marketing strategies, tax laws, basic economics, as well as studio organization.

YEAR 3 QUARTER 4 FINE ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PT4960 Fine Art 4A: Critical Thinking; Creating a Coherent Body of Work 4

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 3A, Fine Art 3B

This is the fourth and final class of a four-part thesis studio course that will enhance the student’s critical thinking skills for the creation of a coherent body of work. By developing the student’s awareness of their individual aesthetic values, what their content is communicating, and the effect their compositional choices are having on the viewer, students will develop a set of parameters that will inform the creation of a body of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will engage in research, analysis and writing about contemporary/historical art theories and practices, as well as stylistic context.

PT4970 Fine Art 4B: Process Development 4

4.0 credits | Prerequisites: Fine Art 3A, Fine Art 3B

This is the fourth and final class of a four-part thesis studio course that will serve as an aid to the Fine Art Critical Thinking classes. As students are encouraged to make creative choices in regard to mediums, tools, and technical application, they will further refine the parameters of their body of work and develop a personal process for creating pieces. Process Development will address the student’s individual technical concerns that may arise during the creation of work. In addition to developing a body of work, students will research and analyze historical and contemporary art practices in order to think, speak and write more clearly about their craft.

BS1470 Business of Art 2: Portfolio and Website

3.0 Credits | Prerequisites: Business of Art 1

Business of Art 2 will ensure students have good portfolios, business cards, promotional mailers, business email addresses, blogs or websites established before graduation. Under the supervision of their instructor, students will research and target several galleries/organizations to inquire about opportunities with them. Professional working fine artists will review and critique student’s body of work, giving students another opportunity to perfect their body of work before presenting it to real world gallery/organization opportunities.

PP9900 Portfolio Presentation

3.0 Credits

Students refine and complete final works that will represent them as their cohesive body of work as a professional fine artist working in traditional media. Consideration will be given to framing, presentation and the preparation of a gallery exhibit.

GENERAL EDUCATION COURSES

General Education Requirements:

LAAFA will provide the needed general education courses required for the degree programs. Students must satisfy each of the following listed areas:

Area A: English (9 Semester Credits)

Must take the following courses: English Comp 101, Creative Writing, and one of the following: English 102 (Composition II) or English 103 (Critical Thinking)

Area B: Scientific Inquiry (6 Semester Credits)

Must take any two of the following disciplines (one of the courses must include math or statistic):

Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Geology, Ecology, Oceanography, Meteorology, Zoology (Animal Science), Botany (Plant Science) Environmental Science, Microbiology, Physiology, Math, Statistics, Anatomy. Other disciplines not listed in this area are considered.

Scientific Inquiry is considered an essential skill of graduates in the area of Fine Art and Entertainment Art; LAAFA’s philosophy of Scientific Inquiry is that it encompasses courses in quantitative reasoning. Courses in Quantitative Reasoning include any course in Math or Statistics.

Area C: Arts and Humanities (6 Semester Credits)

Must take the following two courses: Introduction to Theater, Introduction to Film

Area D: Social Sciences (3 Semester Credits)

Must take any one of the following disciplines: Communication Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology, History. Other disciplines not listed in this area are considered.

Area E : Philosophical Reasoning (3 Semester Credits)

Must take any one of the following disciplines: Philosophy, Semantics, Logic, Human Rights, Art and Philosophy, Ethics, Justice. Other disciplines not listed in this area are considered.

Area F : Business of Art (6 Semester Credits)

Must take the following two courses: Business of Art 1, Business of Art 2

Area G : Art History (21 Semester Credits)

Must take the following seven courses: Art History 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and Semiotics and Ism’s in Contemporary Theory*

*Offered only in the Fine Arts concentration.

Additional Information

Please note: General education course requirements listed are expressed in “semester credits”, as LAAFA recognizes that students may transfer credits from semester-based institutions. LAAFA will award 3 credits for any course transferred from another institution regardless of quarter/semester format and regardless of the number of credits awarded at the institution. In addition, LAAFA may substitute any course above to meet the needed BFA Degree requirements.

General Education Credits
Criteria for the transferability of General Education credits from other institutions:
- Transfer credit for General Studies/Liberal Arts may be accepted from colleges or universities that are accredited by a regional accreditation agency approved by the US Department of Education such as Western (WASC), or National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
- Transfer credits will only be accepted for those classes with which the student received a grade of “C” or above.
- The title and description of the course, as well as any information you feel are pertinent for the registrar to know should be included.
- International course transfer is considered on a case-by-case basis. A certified English translation of all academic records’ conversion to the U.S. quarter unit system is required. You may use services such as; Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or World Education Services (WES). International college documents will be evaluated on an individual basis.
- LAAFA’s transfer policy for General Education courses is that 3 credits, no more or less, will be awarded for any course that is encompassed in LAAFA’s list of required General Education courses, regardless of the credits earned from the institution of origin (Institute of origin may award more or less credits for any given course, based on the individual policies of the institution or based on semester/quarter format.)
- Transferred courses will satisfy the General Education requirements for the respective areas of the General Education curriculum.
- The faculty chair is the final authority for approving a course for transfer in the general education areas.
- Evaluations must take place prior to orientation and registration.
LAAFA accepts transfer courses in the area of Art History, though incoming transfer students are encouraged to take all Art History courses offered as part of the LAAFA curriculum as opposed to transferring these requirements from another institution.

LAAFA accepts transfer courses of the following nature: Creative Writing, Introduction to Music, Introduction to Dance, Introduction to Theater Arts, Introduction to Film. These courses, or courses with similar titles, are part of LAAFA’s required Experience of the Non-Visual Arts curriculum, and students are encouraged to take all Experience of the Non-Visual Arts courses as part of the LAAFA curriculum as opposed to transferring these courses from another institution.

LAAFA accepts transfer courses in Business of Art or Business of Entertainment Art, or courses with similar titles, though students are encouraged to take these courses at LAAFA as opposed to transferring these requirements from another institution.

LAAFA doesn’t charge a fee for the evaluation of the student’s transfer credit.
Studio Credits
Transfer of Studio Credits from Other Institutions

A transfer portfolio must be submitted for each studio art course you wish to be considered for transfer. Transfer portfolio evaluations must take place prior to orientation and registration. LAAFA will be looking for evidence of the work you completed in the specific course or courses you wish to apply toward required courses in the LAAFA curriculum. Submit at least 6 to 10 examples from each studio class.

PLEASE NOTE:
- A grade of “C” or better from an accredited American post secondary institution is the minimum grade required for transfer studio eligibility. Your portfolio must reflect the overall strength of the course you have completed.
- The title and description of the course, as well as any information you feel are pertinent for the reviewer to know should be included with your portfolio.
- Your work must be organized in a chronological manner.
- All fragile media must have a cover sheet.
- Label the outside of your portfolio with your name and “Transfer Portfolio.”
- Portfolios cannot be evaluated until the Registrar has reviewed your transcripts.
- Your portfolio will be evaluated by the full-time faculty. The evaluator will document their findings in the student’s file and forward the results to the Registrar. If the student disagrees with the findings, they may appeal their case to the Faculty Chair for review. The Faculty Chair will further document the student’s file with their findings and notify the Registrar.
- International course transfer is considered on a case-by-case basis. A certified English translation of all academic records’ conversion to the U.S. quarter unit system is required. You may use services such as; Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or World Education Services (WES). International college documents will be evaluated on an individual basis.
LAAFA doesn’t charge a fee for the evaluation of the student’s transfer credit.
LAAFA Credits
Transferability of Credits and Credentials Earned At Our Institution

The transferability of credits you earn at LAAFA is at the complete discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree, diploma, or certificate that you earn in our accredited Fine Art or Entertainment Art Program is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer. If the credits or degree, diploma or certificate that you earn at this institution are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason, you should make certain that your attendance at LAAFA will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which you may seek to transfer after attending LAAFA to determine if your credits or degree, diploma or certificate will transfer.

Once a student is done with their studies at LAAFA and if they wish to attend another college, we will, on behalf of the student, attempt to articulate an agreement with their school of choice.

Fine Art Curriculum.

General Education Credits

Studio Credits

LAAFA Credits

Information

Campus Address

Business Hours