Art
About the Program
San José City College offers both an Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science (AS) in Art degree. Students planning to follow a transfer pattern should use the Associate in Arts degree. This degree may not transfer to all universities, and students need to inquire of the universities if they have a bachelor’s degree for their upper division course work. The Associate in Science has 2 possible areas of emphasis: Drawing and Painting or Photography. A minimum of 3 courses in the Art major must be taken at San José City College. A grade of “C” or better is required in each course in the major and area of emphasis for graduation.
Career Options
- Advertising Photography
- Darkroom Technician
- Fashion Design and Illustration
- Fine Art Framer
- Floral Arranger and Designer
- Interior Designer
- Illustrator
- Textile Designer
- Window & Retail Display
Related Occupations
- Animation
- Architecture
- Art Education and Teaching
- Art Direction
- Film and Video Production
- Landscaping
- Marketing and Advertising
- Medical Illustration
- Service Bureau Technician
Degrees
- A.A. Degree
- A.S. Degree
For additional information, see a counselor, visit the Career/Transfer Center, or contact the following:
| Name/Office | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Humanities and Social Sciences Divison | (408) 288-3785 |
Studio Arts
About the Program
The Associate in Arts in Studio Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degree meets the lower division course requirements necessary for the California State University (CSU) system. The Studio Arts program includes courses focused on developing an understanding of the elements and principles of design, specific skill building in two-, three-dimensional and digital mediums. In pursuing the AA-T in Studio Arts degree, students acquire skills through in-class projects, exercises, written and/or oral presentations, critiques, and development of personal aesthetic and creative processes. Students majoring in studio arts develop critical thinking, creative problem solving, and written and verbal communication skills. As studio art majors, students have learning opportunities that are relevant to many types of careers working as a Fashion Designer, Fine Art Preparator, Illustrator, Animator, Architect, Studio Artist, or Art Educator.
Upon completion of program students will be able to:
- Utilize the broader vocabulary of art and design as well as discipline-specific terminology in the objective and subjective analysis of artworks.
- Build competency in technical skills and concepts.
- Establish a creative practice which includes problem solving skills.
- Recognize major artists and historical/cultural trends and styles.
- Demonstrate engagement, participation, and civility in the classroom/studio setting.
For additional information, see a counselor, visit the Career/Transfer Center, or contact the following:
| Name/Office | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Humanities and Social Sciences Division | (408) 288-3785 |
ART 012 Two-Dimensional Design 3 Units
Students are introduced to the theories and applications of two-dimensional (flat surface) form in visual art and design. Students will use a variety of media, tools, and techniques in studying line form, volume, space, value, texture, balance, proportion, movement, light and contrast. The course may include field trips. (C-ID ARTS 100)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 013 Three Dimensional Design 3 Units
Students are introduced to the principles and applications of design in three-dimensional form in space. Students study the elements and principles of design, using a variety of tools, techniques, and mediums which may include wire, cardboard, clay, and other materials at the instructor's discretion, in a studio lab setting. Field trips may be required. (C-ID ARTS 101)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: O
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 1
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 014 Color Theory 3 Units
Students will study the principles, theories, and applications of additive and subtractive color in two dimensions. Topics will include major historical and contemporary color systems and the elements of design as they apply to color. Students will produce projects in applied color. (C-ID ARTS 270)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 024 Beginning Drawing 3 Units
Students are introduced to the fundamental elements and compositional principles of drawing. Lecture and studio practice will emphasize a variety of media, tools, and techniques in studying the elements and principles of drawing, including line, shape, value, perspective, proportion, balance, and unity. The course may include field trips. (C-ID ARTS 110)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 026 Intermediate Drawing 3 Units
Students will build on fundamental drawing skills to develop personalized approaches to content and materials in exercises using multiple historical and contemporary approaches to drawing. Students will explore artistic concepts, styles, and creative expression appropriate to intermediate-level drawing, focusing on complex subject matter and concepts using a variety of drawing mediums, techniques, and methodologies. Field trips may be required. (C-ID ARTS 205)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 024 with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 027A Illustration 1 3 Units
Students are introduced to illustration techniques and applications. Students will work in a variety of media to produce illustrations for specific topics and genres. Field trips may be required.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Recommended: Prior completion of ART 024
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 040 Ceramic Sculpture 1 3 Units
Students are introduced to expressive and technical principles in ceramic sculpture. Students will study the techniques and history of ceramic sculpture and develop a personal mode of expression and aesthetic development through class projects and research. Field trips will be required.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 046A or ART 013 with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 042 Beginning Sculpture I 3 Units
Students are introduced to three-dimensional sculptural principles, techniques, and concepts utilizing a wide range of materials and practices. Various sculptural methods are practiced with attention to creative self-expression and historical context.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 046A Beginning Ceramics I 3 Units
Introduction to ceramics materials, concepts, and processes including basic design principles, creative development, hand-building, throwing, glaze techniques, firing and ceramic terminology. The course covers aesthetics and creative development of clay objects, examining historical, contemporary, and personal modes of expression across cultures.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 046B Beginning Ceramics II 3 Units
Students continue study of clay construction including hand building, wheel throwing, surface decoration, and firing. Emphasis is on individual aesthetic development and personal expression. Field trips may be required.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 046A with C or better.
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 055A Life Drawing I 3 Units
Students will be able to draw the human figure from life and develop and refine their observation and rendering skills. Various methods of approach and techniques will be explored. Practical emphasis on the elements and principles of design and drawing will allow students to synthesize their knowledge from previous courses and practice the basics of proportion, modeling, perspective and anatomy. (C-ID ARTS 200)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 024 with C or better.
Recommended: Completion of ART 024 with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 055B Life Drawing II 3 Units
Students continue to examine and explore the drawing of the human figure, with emphasis on further practice of techniques while developing a personal artistic direction. Topics covered will include development of composition, use of multiple figures, integration of color, theme development, and exploration of expressive style, portraiture, and clothed and draped figures.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 055A with C or better.
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 060 Beginning Painting I 3 Units
Students will explore a variety of methods of approach, learn various techniques, test the effects of different color schemes, become familiar with tools and materials of the craft, and develop skills related to painting through illustrated lectures, demonstrations, and studio practice. Beginning Painting is an introductory studio course in acrylic and oil painting media. (C-ID ARTS 210)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Recommended: Prior completion of ART 014 and ART 024
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 061 Beginning Painting II 3 Units
Students expand knowledge gained in ART 060, emphasizing development of personal aesthetics and composition. Conceptual issues will be introduced. Students will experiment with media, content and technique of painting to further explore and develop their aesthetic style.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 060 with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 071 Introduction to Media Arts 3 Units
Students will study key concepts of interactive media. Topics include its hardware and software, current applications, tools and techniques, aesthetics, and content development. Students will also develop a short multimedia piece. This course is being replaced by DMA 001 - Introduction to Digital Media Arts. (C-ID ARTS 250)
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Recommended: Students should be familiar with computers and external devices such as cameras
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 072 Computer Graphics 3 Units
Students learn fundamental concepts and practices of creating computer graphics. Topics will include using design elements, creating layouts, working with a variety software programs, using scanners, digital cameras and other input devices, and printing. Students will apply the foundational principles and elements of design in a computer setting. This course is being replaced by DMA 003 - Introduction to Typography.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Recommended: PC or Mac, and basic computer literacy are highly recommended.
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 076 Professional Practices and Portfolio Development 1 3 Units
Students will focus on career exploration and portfolio development in their area of concentration through researching their chosen field of art, creating resumes, and developing portfolios that will showcase their unique artistic styles and strengths.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: Students must complete a minimum of 12 units from: ART 012 or ART 013 or ART 014 or ART 024 or ART 026 or ART 040 or ART 042 or ART 046A or ART 046B or ART 055A or ART 055B or ART 060 or ART 061 or ART 095 or ART 095B or PHOTO 022 or PHOTO 062 or PHOTO 079; with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 076B Professional Practices and Portfolio Development 2 3 Units
Students refine their artistic vision and goals to produce a professional quality portfolio. Students work individually and in teams to curate and install exhibitions. Students will produce written and/or oral presentations, further develop their artist statements and resumes, present their work through exhibitions and portfolios, and create capstone projects in their area of concentration.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 076 with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 078 Digital Video 3 Units
Students will learn how to shoot, download and edit digital video for use in a variety of media. Topics will include an overview of tools available for digital video production, creating and importing video-clips, audio and graphic elements. Copyright and legal issues will be discussed. Field trips may be required. This course is being replaced by DMA 007 - Digital Video Production.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 079A Web Design 1 3 Units
Students will study the key concepts of building well-designed and functional web sites. Topics will include analysis of web architecture, an introduction to HTML and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), creation of web appropriate graphics, designing for different devices, and web accessibility issues. This course is being replaced by DMA 004 - Fundamentals of Web Design.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 079B Web Design 2 3 Units
Students who have completed Web Design 1 will take their skills to the next level. Students will study topics that will include analysis and deconstruction of websites, advanced design concepts, integrating media, designing for multiple platforms, and an exploration of the latest technology. Students will be expected to work independently.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 079A with C or better.
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 084A Web Animation 1 3 Units
Students will learn animation skills and techniques to produce a variety of animated presentations for the web using current software and programming languages. Projects will include animated banners, cartoons, web pages, and interactive presentations, and may include basic game construction. This course is being replaced by DMA 022 - Animation for Web and Media.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Recommended: Computer literacy and ability to work with basic computer programming
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 084B Web Animation 2 3 Units
Students will continue to develop their skills in creating animated presentations for the web using current software and programming languages. The focus will be on developing a deeper understanding and application of scripting languages, as well as the creation of advanced projects.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 084A with C or better
Recommended: Computer literacy and ability to work with object oriented programming
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: 2
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 089 Special Projects in Ceramics 3 Units
Students will improve and develop skills in a specialized area of ceramic art. Field trips will be required.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 046B with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 090 Art Appreciation 3 Units
Students will develop an appreciation of the visual arts, aesthetics, and creative process. They are introduced to the analysis of art in terms of form, function, process, content, and themes. Students receive a broad overview of the visual arts, its elements and principles, media, techniques, and terminology. Students will also examine the role of art criticism and aesthetics in a historical and cultural context. Field trips may be required. (C-ID ARTH 100)
Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 4 Write: 4 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: C1 IGETC: 3A District GE: C1
ART 091 Survey of Art History: Prehistoric Through Gothic 3 Units
Students will study Western art history from the Prehistoric through the Gothic periods. Course content emphasizes painting, sculpture, and architecture from the most important centers of culture, and how art reflects historical, social, political, and religious attitudes of the time. Comparative analysis of styles with critical evaluation of aesthetics. A field trip may be required. (C-ID ARTH 110)
Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: C1 IGETC: 3A District GE: C1
ART 092 Survey of Art History: Renaissance to the Present 3 Units
Students will study Western and Non-Western art history from the Renaissance through the present. Course content emphasizes painting, sculpture, and some architecture from the most important centers of culture, and how art reflects historical occurrences, social, political, and religious attitudes of the time. Comparative analysis of styles and artists with critical evaluation of aesthetics will be included. Topics include Early to High Renaissance, Mannerism, Baroque, Rococo, Romanticism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Fauvism, Cubism, Abstract Expressionism, and Post Modernism. A field trip may be required. (C-ID ARTH 120)
Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: C1 IGETC: 3A District GE: C1
ART 093 Art of the Americas 3 Units
Students will obtain a critical survey of history through the arts of pre-Columbian indigenous peoples of North America, Mesoamerica, and South America. The course will cover major societies and events from the appearance of major civilizations through the initial colonization efforts of European nations. This course will also include a discussion of contemporary indigenous cultures. The history of art in the Americas includes architecture, sculpture, ceramics, painting and textiles of ancient societies as primary source material. (C-ID ARTH 145)
Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: C1 IGETC: 3A District GE: C1
ART 095 Watercolor 1 3 Units
Students will learn techniques and the use of basic materials of watercolor painting. Course content includes tool and material selection, and standard techniques. Topics covered may include wash, wet into wet, wet on dry, glazing, and the use of masking. Color theory and composition are emphasized to enable students to create a series of finished paintings.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Recommended: ART 014 and ART 024
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 095B Watercolor 2 3 Units
Students expand their technique and knowledge of materials of watercolor painting in this intermediate-level course. Course content includes intermediate techniques and further exploration of tools and materials. Students will use creative problem-solving and experimentation to develop their aesthetic expression.
Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 4 Repeatable: No Grading: L
Prerequisite: ART 095 with C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None
ART 096 Survey of Asian Art 3 Units
This course provides a select overview of art and architecture from India, Southeast Asia, China, Korea, and Japan from pre-history to modern times. Students will apply critical evaluation and comparative analysis of secular and religious trends to assess and appreciate how historical trends have influenced and shaped the arts in Asia today. A field trip will be required. (C-ID ARTH 130)
Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No Grading: L
Advisory Level: Read: 3 Write: 3 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: C1 IGETC: 3A District GE: C1
ART 098 Directed Study in Art 0.5-9 Units
Individual or small groups of students, with previous course work in the discipline, who would benefit from Independent Study under the direction of faculty members in specific or related disciplines, may develop individualized learning contracts designed to enhance their individual instructional programs. The students and the faculty member in consultation with the Division Dean will determine appropriate learning objectives and activities as well as the number of units to be earned. Instructions and the Learning Contract forms are available in the Division Office. Repeatable to a maximum of 9 units across all disciplines.
Lecture Hours: None Lab Hours: 2.07 Repeatable: Yes Grading: O
Prerequisite: ART 026 or ART 055B or ART 061 or ART 076B or ART 089 or ART 095B; with a C or better
Advisory Level: Read: 2 Write: 2 Math: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
CSU GE: None IGETC: None District GE: None