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Course Information

Course Number: COMD 1233

Course Title: Figure Drawing

Course Description: A drawing course developing visual awareness of the human figure. Students develop an understanding of the basic forms of the human body, how those forms are connected and move, and how to draw those forms proportionally. Students also consider how the human form relates to the world around it, developing a clear understanding of how to create a composition containing proportional figures within a space according to perspective.

Credits / Hours: 2 cl hr, 2 lab hrs, 3 cr

Section Number:

Pre/Co-requisites: COMD 1123

Class Meetings

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Faculty Information

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Learning Outcomes

  • Create a basic contour line drawing of a human figure, using skeletal landmarks for proportion.
  • Identify and draw major muscle groups.
  • Draw the three dimensions of a figure in a perspective space.
  • Use the elements of light and shade to create three-dimensional figures in perspective.
  • Understand and utilize a full range of value and shadow patterns to create dimensionality.
  • Use proportion, light and shade to compose multiple three-dimensional figures in perspective space.
  • Understand and apply compositional concepts, such as Contrast, Negative
    Space, Balance, Rhythm, and Focal Point.
  • Understand and utilize drawing concepts and vocabulary, plus complete a portfolio of drawing projects.

Teaching/Learning Methods

The course is built around 15 weekly synchronous classes providing the following instruction:

  • Weekly homework assignments
  • Weekly sketchbook drawings
  • Online discussions
  • Video tutorials and other resources
  • Problem solving sessions (office hours) by appointment
  • In-class drawing from the model
  • Drawing demonstrations
  • Project-based labs and in-class exercises
  • Discussions

The course also includes asynchronous learning components:

  • Lecture and readings
  • Critiques
  • Testing

Technology Requirements

Schedule

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Grading Policy

  • Sketchbook (2 pages, 30 minutes per page, required weekly.) 10%
  • Individual Assignments 40%
  • In-Class Participation i.e. discussions, critiques, and quizzes 15%
  • Exams 10%
  • Final Project 25%
  • Total 100%

See details on grading policy page.

Class Etiquette & Netiquette

Learning is a group activity. The behavior of each person in class affects the overall learning environment. As a COMD student you are expected to act in a professional manner; to be respectful of the learning process, your instructor, and your fellow students. And hopefully have fun!

Attendance/Participation

Attendance is taken and is important to success in this class. Both absences and arrival more than 15 minutes after the start of class will be marked. If excessive, the instructor will alert the student that they may be in danger of not meeting the course objectives and participation expectations, which could lead to a lower or failing grade. If you have medical problems or unusual circumstances, speak with me as soon as possible.

Participation is critical to success in this course. Each new lesson is based on the foundation of the previous presentation. Lack of participation affects your final grade by affecting your future homework, cumulative knowledge, test results, and drawing performance.

Academic Integrity Policy

Students and all others who work with information, ideas, texts, images, music, inventions and other intellectual property owe their audience and sources accuracy and honesty in using, crediting and citation of sources. As a community of intellectual and professional workers, the college recognizes its responsibility for providing instruction in information literacy and academic integrity, offering models of good practice, and responding vigilantly and appropriately to infractions of academic integrity. Accordingly, academic dishonesty is prohibited in The City University of New York and is punishable by penalties, including failing grades, suspension and expulsion. More information about the College’s policy on Academic Integrity may be found in the College Catalog. 

What if I Miss a Class?

One missed class may impact as many as 3 sessions. Make every effort not to miss, but when unavoidable, contact your professor immediately. They will make every effort to help, but you are responsible for making up what you miss. If you must be absent, watch and follow the complete recorded session online. Do the same in-class exercises and assignments, and study the video links and resources for the class you missed.

Additionally, try to attend a Problem Solving Session (Office Hour) to receive additional help. These sessions are scheduled weekly and by appointment.

Your Teacher’s Commitment

Your professor remains ready to assist you in every way possible to grow as an artist and visual communicator, to improve your figure drawing skills and understanding, and to fulfill the objectives of this course. If you need feedback, a critique, or a private consultation at any time, please reach out.

Materials List

In order to participate fully in this course, you need to have the supplies found in the Materials List. Aim to have them by the 2nd class to receive your first grade of the term. You will find your Materials List here.

Course Resources

  • Required text(s) and any other required course materials.
  • Required and recommended readings and other major assignments.
  • Links to resources such as the library, writing center, tutoring.
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