MSU Billings Catalog

The Department of Art

Art History

ARTH 150 Introduction to Art History. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

Surveys world art from prehistory through the present day with the objective of developing a critical understanding of art forms in their historical and cultural context.

Department: Art

ARTH 160 Global Visual Culture. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

Examines visual culture, which includes painting, sculpture, photography, the Internet, performance, cinema, advertising, and television, as our primary means of communication and of understanding our postmodern world. Explores the effects of global visual culture on specific cultures and societies. Special emphasis on the importance of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and the body in visual culture.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 252 Visual Theory & Criticism. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTH 150, WRIT 101.

3cr. Introduces different genres of writing about art. Provides overview of historic and contemporary art critics and theoreticians. Students learn to critically evaluate the merits and limitations of different visual theories and relate them to the practices of creating and interpreting art.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 321 Renaissance & Baroque Art. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall (even years)

Prerequisite(s): ARTH 150 or consent of instructor.

Surveys the major artistic developments in Europe from the fifteenth through the seventeenth centuries. In addition to examining the stylistic evolution of Renaissance and Baroque art, this course also addresses the relationship of cultural production to social customs, intellectual trends, political systems, and religious beliefs. Emphasis on the works of Jan Van Eyck, Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo daVinci, Michelangelo, Albrecht Durer, Titian, Caravaggio, Artemisia Gentileschi, Bernini, Rubens, Velazquez, and Rembrandt.

Department: Art

ARTH 342 Modern Art. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring (even years)

Prerequisite(s): ARTH 150 or consent of instructor.

Surveys major developments in European and American art from the late eighteenth century to the present. Focuses on the aesthetics and philosophies of modernism and postmodernism and their cultural and political contexts.

Department: Art

ARTH 436 The History of Women in Art. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall (odd years)

Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101; Preferred background ARTH 150.

Provides a thematic and chronological survey of women as creators, collectors, and the subject of art, beginning with the medieval period and finishing in the present day. Emphasizes the institutional and ideological factors that have made it difficult for women to achieve equal status in the arts, the Women’s Art Movement of the 1970’s, and contemporary feminist art.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 439 American Indian Art. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall (even years)

Presents an overview and analysis of Native American art forms, techniques, and traditions. Background and interpretation of traditional and contemporary styles and symbols important to both tribal and individual expression. Includes discussion of tribal arts and crafts associations, markets and exhibitions, and federal laws.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 451 Contemporary Art. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring (odd years)

Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101; Preferred background ARTH 150.

Surveys developments in the world of art since 1970.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 452 History of Time-Based Arts. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTH 150; ARTH 160 recommended.

3cr. Offers overview of key historical, critical, and theoretical issues in time-based arts from emergence of modernist avant-garde in Europe at beginning of the 20th century to the post-postmodern and post-photographic present, global moment. Reviews aesthetic movements in time-based media since the invention of photography. Topics include: the impact of commercial imagery on time-based arts, stylistic and ethical approaches to time-based arts, the politics of the museum & gallery in response to technological evolution, and influence of digital technology and the internet on artistic production and reception.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 455 Art & the Environment. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring (even years)

Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101 or ENST 210; Preferred background ARTH 150.

Explores the relationship between artistic expression and the natural environment from a cross-cultural and historical perspective. Emphasis on landscape painting, architectural site planning, earthworks, land art and the impact of environmentalism, eco-feminism and holistic worldviews on contemporary art production.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTH 492 Independent Study. 1-5 Credits

Prerequisite(s): consent of instructor and department chairperson.

Provides outstanding students an opportunity to explore material not covered by regular Art courses.

Lecture Hours 1-5

Department: Art

ARTH 494 Seminar/Workshop. 1-5 Credits

Provides advanced students an opportunity to intensively investigate topics pertinent to the field of Art.

Lecture Hours 1-5

Department: Art

ARTH 495 Practicum in Art. 1-5 Credits

Prerequisite(s): consent of instructor.

Provides experience in a responsible appointment as an assistant in some specialized area of the Art Program.

Lecture Hours 1-5

Department: Art

ARTH 498 Internship/Cooperative Educ. 1-9 Credits

Provides university credit for a work experience in the area of Art supervised by faculty. Learning agreement must be completed prior to registration (restricted).

Department: Art

Art: Visual Arts

ARTZ 102 Fund of Art for Elem Teachers. 2 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Prerequisite(s): Restricted to majors in Elementary Education and Special Education.

(Stu) Provides experiences with two-and three-dimensional materials and techniques appropriate for elementary teachers. Includes selected components of art history, art criticism and aesthetics (modern paradigm) and the post-modern paradigm. (Lab fee)

Lecture Hours 2

Department: Art

ARTZ 104 Studio Safety. 1 Credit

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Corequisite(s): ARTZ 108.

Provides students with safety protocols and information throughout multiple disciplines in art creation. Includes information on material handling, personal protective equipment, proper use of equipment, and mitigation of hazardous environments.

Lecture Hours 1

Department: Art

ARTZ 105 Visual Language-Drawing. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

3cr. (4.5 other/wk) (Stu) Explores the basic fundamentals of drawing and linear perspective in this studio course appropriate for students at all drawing levels. Students will convey line, form, value, composition, and linear perspective through the application of various methods and materials in a contemporary drawing focus. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 106 Visual Language-2-D Fndtns. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

3cr. (4.5 other/wk) (Stu) Provides the student with the basic fundamentals to plan and organize two-dimensional expression through painting, graphic design, color theory and composition. Student will be exposed to both content (what artists want to say) and form (how an artist says it). An emphasis will be placed on creativity and critical thinking skills. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 108 Visual Language-3-D Fndtns. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

3cr. (4.5 other/wk) (Stu) Introduces the basic principles of designing in three dimensions with an emphasis on form, structure, and terminology in media such as wood, paper fibers, metal, plaster, clay, etc. Assignments focus on aesthetic concepts and technical skills and involve broad-based themes of art, the role of the artist, and creative and critical thinking skills. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 131 Ceramics for Non-Majors. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

3cr. (4.5 other/wk) (Stu) Develops the ability to design three-dimensional clay forms using manual dexterity. Provides the individual with opportunities for creative experiences and an understanding of basic artistic developments in design, process and content of the ceramic object. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 211 Drawing I. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 105.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) Continues and expands on the understanding of the fundamentals, the theories and the content of drawing with an emphasis on the human figure. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 221 Painting I. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 105 and ARTZ 106 or consent of instructor.

4cr. (6 other/wk) (Rct 2, Stu 2) Introduces the principles and practices of painting through exploration of materials with an emphasis on historical and contemporary painting practices and aesthetics. Students will investigate paint related solutions associated with color theory, composition, and self-expression. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 231 Ceramics I. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

4cr. (6 other/wk) (Rct 2, Stu 2) Preferred background ARTZ 108. Introduces basic forming skills, glaze techniques and firing processes with emphasis on craftsmanship and aesthetic judgment. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 251 Sculpture I. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 108 or consent of instructor.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) Introduces the basic concepts of space and volume as they relate to sculpture as well as the basic methods of forming various materials into sculpture. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 258 New Media I. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 106 or consent of instructor.

Explores the creative potential of computer-based digital technology on an introductory level: creative research and experimentation in contemporary artistic expression including two-dimensional and three-dimensional digital applications, and large-format printing. Work includes instruction on software programs used by studio artists with emphasis on theory, aesthetics, and technology for fine art applications. Digital camera required. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 271 Printmaking I. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 106 and ARTZ 105 or consent of instructor.

4cr. (6 other/wk) (Rct 2, Stu 2) (even Sp) Provide basic concepts in areas of serigraphy, intaglio, and relief as means of contemporary expression. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 284 Photo I-Techniques & Processes. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 106.

4cr. Provides instruction in lens-based image creation while investigating problems of design, content, criticism and expression in the photographic medium with emphasis on theory, aesthetics, and technology for fine art applications. Studio practices emphasize photographic techniques, process, and workflow within the digital and chemical photographic lab. Required: Portable Hard-Drive, DSLR/Mirrorless Camera recommended (Lab fee).

Lecture Hours 3, Lab Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTZ 294 Seminar/Workshop. 1-4 Credits

Provides an opportunity for study in an area of Art.

Lecture Hours 1-4

Department: Art

ARTZ 298 Internship/Cooperative Educ. 1-9 Credits

Provides university credit for a sophomore work experience in the area of Art supervised by faculty. Learning agreement must be completed prior to registration (restricted).

Lecture Hours 1-9

Department: Art

ARTZ 311 Drawing II. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 211.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) Continues application of drawing methods as a contemporary art practice while building on concepts of innovation, critical thinking, and expression. Explores various mediums and formats within guided projects. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 321 Painting II. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 221.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) Continues examination of contemporary painting practices while innovating self-expression in two-dimensional art research. Focuses development of critical thinking, aesthetics, and material exploration through guided projects. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 331 Ceramics II. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 231.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) Develops technical skills in the forming of clay design concepts and glaze technology. Emphasis is placed on the growth of personal development. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 351 Sculpture II. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 251.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) Provides exploration and laboratory experience in a variety of materials in the production of three-dimensional art forms. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 358 New Media II. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 258.

4cr. (6 other/wk) (Stu 6 hrs/wk) Continues the development of new media skills on an intermediate level: creative research and experimentation in contemporary artistic expression with an emphasis on time-based and interactive applications, including video installation, media performance, and interactive animation. Work includes instruction on software programs used by studio artists with emphasis on theory, aesthetics, and technology for fine art applications. Digital camera required; video camera recommended. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 384 Photo II-Thry,Crtcsm,Practice. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 284.

4cr. Continues development of photographic skills while advancing concepts of design, content and expression through lens and light-based photographic mediums. Course is taught using a variety of photographic techniques and processes, while exploring experimental and spatial possibilities of the medium. Emphasis on photo theory, aesthetics and criticism in contemporary lens-based imaging practices. Required: Portable Hard-Drive. Digital SLR and Analogue/Film cameras will be available for checkout. (Lab fee).

Lecture Hours 3, Lab Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTZ 402 Teaching Art I--K-12. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): Admission to Educator Preparation Program and ARTH 150, ARTZ 106, and ARTZ 108.

Provides pre-service K-12 art teachers with modern and postmodern theories and practical strategies for planning, facilitating, and assessing student learning. Art production, history/heritage, criticism, and aesthetics are addressed from age-appropriate perspectives and as related to the disciplines. Field experience is a focus. Presents an overview of technology, inclusion of special populations, health/safety aspects, and art-related career opportunities. Offered in the fall of even years.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTZ 403 Teaching Art II--K-12. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 402.

Corequisite(s): EDU 354.

3cr. (3 other/wk) Investigates and evaluates art-specific classroom management and assessment methods. Continues to apply K-12 grade-level art teaching strategies discovered in ARTZ 402. Diverse studio practices, aesthetics, criticism, art history, and legal topics are further examined through experiences concurrently engaged in EDU 354. Includes collaboration methods, examination and practice with technology for art teaching and learning, and preparation for transition into life as a professional Art Educator or related field. (Lab fee).

Department: Art

ARTZ 406 Gallery Professional Practices. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring (odd years)

Introduces students to standards, practices, and methods of the art gallery profession. Provides hands-on training in all aspects of the operations of the Northcutt Steele Gallery. Includes assigned readings, writings, guest presentations, visits to local/regional art institutions, and a research project that connects hands-on experiences to broader issues in contemporary gallery and museum practices.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art

ARTZ 409 Advncd Professional Practices. 1 Credit

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): Junior or senior level standing; Art majors and minors only.

Focuses on preparation for the Senior Project/Capstone Exhibition and introduces elements related to a career as a professional artist. Topics include development of visual and/or written portfolio, writing a resume and artist statement, exhibition opportunities, graduate programs, online portfolios and marketing. Class may be taken concurrently with ARTZ 499 Senior Project/Capstone.

Lecture Hours 1

Department: Art

ARTZ 410 Advanced Research-Drawing. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 105, ARTZ 211, ARTZ 311.

R-24. Explores development of personal research and aesthetics through drawing methodologies and incorporates principles and theories of drawing found in historic and contemporary art. Emphasis will be placed on building self-proposed and guided thematic projects that incorporate critical thinking skills and research demonstrated through drawing. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 420 Advanced Research-Painting. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 221, ARTZ 321.

4cr. (6 other/wk) (Rct 2, Stu 2) R-24. Explores development of personal research and aesthetics through painting methodologies and incorporates principles and theories of painting found in historic and contemporary art. Emphasis will be placed on building self-proposed and guided thematic projects that incorporate critical thinking skills and research demonstrated in a painting perspective. Lab fee.

Department: Art

ARTZ 430 Advanced Research-Ceramics. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 331.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) R-24. Employs advanced technical problems and emphasizes personal expression in the medium. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 451 Advanced Research-Sculpture. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 351.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) R- 24. Involves advanced level sculptural exploration emphasizing personal expression and style. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 458 New Media III. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 358.

R-24 Explores the creative potential of computer-based digital technology on an advanced level. Students will create several assignment-guided and self-proposed projects. These can include site-specific media installation, video installation, net art, art video games, media performances, community projects, etc. Work includes instruction on software programs used by studio artists with emphasis on theory, aesthetics, and technology for fine art applications. (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 486 Advanced Research-Photography. 4 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Spring

Prerequisite(s): ARTZ 384.

(Rct 2, Stu 2) R-24. Involves advanced level photographic exploration and production emphasizing photography as a fine art medium and a means to personal expression. Students will create several assignment-guided and self-proposed projects. Required: manual film SLR camera and digital camera (digital SLR recommended). (Lab fee)

Department: Art

ARTZ 492 Independent Study. 1-5 Credits

Prerequisite(s): consent of instructor and department chairperson.

Provides outstanding students an opportunity to explore material not covered by regular Art courses.

Lecture Hours 1-5

Department: Art

ARTZ 494 Seminar/Workshop. 1-5 Credits

Department: Art

ARTZ 495 Practicum in Art. 1-5 Credits

Prerequisite(s): Senior level standing in Art and consent of department chairperson.

Provides experience in a responsible appointment as an assistant in some specialized area of the Art Program.

Lecture Hours 1-5

Department: Art

ARTZ 498 Internship/Cooperative Educ. 1-9 Credits

Department: Art

ARTZ 499 Senior Project/Capstone. 1 Credit

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Prerequisite(s): Junior or senior level standing in Art.

Art majors or minors only. Involves arranging for all details necessary to present a show of work done during the two years prior to graduation in conjunction with a formal review. The art history student will prepare for the formal review through written documents and recitation. The student will work with his/her advisor.

Department: Art

Photography

PHOT 154 Exploring Digital Photography. 3 Credits

Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

(6 stu/wk) Introduces technical and aesthetic ways of creating digital photographic images. Emphasis is on the production of photographic images, from acquiring them with digital cameras to using computer software for manipulating digital images. Instructor and peer critique of student work is an integral part of the course.

Lecture Hours 3

Department: Art