This course will introduce students into the world of three-dimensional computer graphics. Through this hands-on-course, students will learn how to use 3D software to realize ideas in virtual sculpture, virtual environments, 3D modeling, 3D printing and animation.
Course Objectives and Procedures:
To produce quality art work
To understand the principles of 3D computer sculpture
To be able to relate traditional sculpture principles to 3D computer sculpture
To be able to critique 3D computer sculpture intelligently
To develop original ideas and concepts
To develop an awareness of artist working in the field
To output a physical model via rapid prototyping
To experiment with new ways to connect digital technology to your own art making practice.
There are numerous ways to use digital technology in conjunction with traditional art making techniques, such as, bookmaking, collage, projection environments, installation, etc… And certainly many more ways yet to be discovered.
critiques: Class critiques are very important and will be held at the beginning of class on the due date of each project. You are required to attend critiques even if your work is not complete. Critiques are not for my benefit; instead, they are likely your best method to learn about art making - from your art peers.
grading: To receive a letter grade of "C" you must maintain regular attendance, complete all assignments and participate in class discussions and critiques. An "A" in this course will require that you far exceed the minimum expectations for both quality and concept. Your work should show a highly developed understanding of the concepts and techniques of 3D modeling, as well as an innovative incorporation of this medium into your own developed aesthetic. Your contribution to class discussions and class critiques is vital for an "A".
attendance policy: Don't miss class. Don't arrive late or leave early. You are expected to come to class on time, ready to work and with all necessary supplies and materials. Excused absences are: family emergencies, established religious holidays and illness with an official doctor's note indicating that you needed to stay home on that particular class day. You are responsible to find out what you missed and complete any missed work.
disability policy: Any student who feels he/she may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact me privately, as soon as possible, to discuss specific needs.
honor code: Union College has instituted a new Academic Honor Code, available at honorcode.union.edu. It is each student's responsibility to read and be familiar with it, and to ensure that submitted work is his or her own and does not involve any form of academic misconduct.
supplies: Storage: You will need to purchase some form of media to extract your data from the lab's computers. I recommend buying USB thumb drives or other portable drives. They come in various disk sizes from 2 - 200+gigs and are fairly inexpensive. I recommend buying one that is at least 16Gigs.
Other things you should have with you in class at all times.
Sketch book
Writing implement
Notebook - taking notes will be necessary in this information-intensive course.
reading: I will be giving you readings relating to 3D graphics and ideas that you will be expected to discuss in class.
Additionally, MAXON, the developer of Cinema 4d, hosts a really useful site called Cineversity for learning their software. I will be referencing that site from time to time. You can find that here.