Nov 21, 2024  
DRAFT 2025-2026 College Catalog DRAFT 
    
DRAFT 2025-2026 College Catalog DRAFT [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

ART 121 - Figure Sculpture

3 Credits, 5 Contact Hours
2 lecture periods 3 lab periods
Beginning modeling techniques using clay and other media working partly from anatomical references and partly from the model. Includes visual literacy and critical analysis, range of media, approaches to figurative sculpture, technical understanding in working with human anatomy, content, and safety.

Recommendation: Completion of ART 120  and ART 213  before enrolling in this course. If any recommended course is taken, see a financial aid or Veteran’s Affairs advisor to determine funding eligibility as appropriate.
Information: There may be additional supply costs in addition to course fees.
Button linking to AZ Transfer course equivalency guide  

Course Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate the ability to analyze, write about, and discuss figurative sculpture.
  2. Demonstrate skills working in clay and other media such as wax and plaster, in the sculpture of the human figure.
  3. Demonstrate the ability to use various approaches to the figure, including realism, abstraction and current trends. 
  4. Demonstrate the ability to properly sculpt basic human anatomy.
  5. Develop and discuss concepts concerning content issues in figurative sculpture.
  6. Demonstrate the ability to use equipment safely and properly.

Outline:
  1. Visual Literacy and Critical Analysis
    1. Individual and group critiques
    2. Visits to galleries and written review of exhibitions
    3. Lecture and visual presentations
      1. Historical sculpture
      2. Contemporary figurative sculpture
  2. Explore a Range of Media
    1. Wax
    2. Plaster
    3. Clay
    4. Other
  3. Approaches to Figurative Sculpture
    1. Realism
    2. Abstraction
    3. Current trends
  4. Technical Understanding in Working with Human Anatomy
    1. Skeletal structure
    2. Muscular structure
    3. Detail studies (head, hands, etc.)
  5. Content
    1. Past and contemporary figurative sculptors
    2. Issues in figurative sculpting
    3. Individual approach
  6. Safety
    1. Use of sculpture lab safety equipment
    2. Use of safety gear for material handling