Noncredit Courses
Noncredit Courses
Upcoming Sessions
Spring Registration Opens October 15th
Engage in material exploration and learn new skills or refresh existing ones in our state-of-the-art facilities and studios. Investigate new modes of creative production, including laser cutting and 3D printing, or find inspiration with access to the Art Institute of Chicago museum, the Fashion Resource Center, Joan Flasch Artists' Book Collection, the Roger Brown Study Collection, and Video Data Bank. As a member of our community, one defined by practice and inquiry, you will cultivate creative confidence, learning with and from your instructors and peers as you produce work based on your personal research and interests.
Winter Intensive Courses this January
Adult Continuing Education offers 1-Weeklong and Weekend Intensives that provide artists, designers, and travelers opportunities to advance their practice in one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world: Chicago. Emerging and established artists will enjoy the kinship and camaraderie that is quickly established when working with their peers. Travel to Chicago for an art intensive this January!
What does online learning look like?
Synchronous online courses will use the Zoom video conferencing platform, Canvas learning management system, and SAIC.edu email addresses to deliver course content and facilitate communication between the instructor and students. These courses meet at a specific time of day and are scheduled in Central Time.
Asynchronous online courses are project-based with no set meeting times and 24/7 access to course materials. Weekly activities may include readings, video demonstrations, tutorials, online discussions, assignments, and critiques. Students enrolled in asynchronous courses will have weekly deadlines encouraged to promote interaction with the instructor and peers. Some instructors may also offer optional video conferencing opportunities through Zoom.
Register online
Interested in furthering your artistic development? Learn more about combining ACE courses to earn a Certificate.
Featured Courses
View all courses and register today!
This adult art class explores the work of Paula Modersohn-Becker whose work foreshadowed Expressionism. Taught by experienced instructor Susan Musich, a long time participant within the art community in Chicago, this evening art class will guide you through the halls of the Art Institute’s modern wings. Whether you are diving into a creative hobby, or a serious student of art history, this course will take you down the bold paths of the landscapes, self-portraits, and figurative work of this feminist icon.
This skill-building intensive is the perfect weekend art retreat for those seeking to level up their graphic design chops. World class art instruction is provided at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago where you will create projects using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems and a solid design vocabulary.
Intro to Drawing is an exciting weekend art retreat for students looking for a unique art experience in downtown Chicago. Develop your observational drawing skills and refine your hand-eye coordination in this winter seasonal program. Investigate the perceptual and the conceptual through texture, light, and shade!
Sewing Techniques is a weekend art retreat that provides world class art instruction for those seeking to participate in a skill-building intensive that will give them the foundation skills to construct their own garments! In this beginner art class, you will sew together garments from patterns, create original designs, or explore fabric as a medium for soft sculpture.
| Title | Catalog | Instructor | Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fashion Illustration | 501 (001) | Brady T Drose | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 04, 2025 - April 08, 2025 |
Description
Passionate about clothing design and want to illustrate a collection of your own? Working from clothed models and couture garments, you will learn the skills needed to create evocative and effective illustrations. You will explore fabric texture and draping, along with drawing principles including body proportions, movement and position, perspective, and how to apply appropriate exaggeration and stylization. Influential fashion illustrators will be showcased to provide inspiration and context. Previous drawing experience is helpful.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Graphic Design | 501 (001) | Riesling Dong | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 03, 2025 - April 07, 2025 |
Description
This course examines the fundamentals of two-dimensional design in the digital age. Students will explore principle elements of design including composition, color, and typography through a series of projects that introduce Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as primary graphic design tools. The importance of effective visual communication in both commercial and experimental design is stressed as students gain an understanding of the professional design process from the client brief to the finished digital project. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems, a basic design vocabulary, and an understanding of the specific role that Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop play in creating professional work. Before starting this course, students should be comfortable creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Interior Design | 501 (001) | Richard Kasemsarn | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
Description
This course introduces the skills and insights needed to be a successful interior designer and examines why some designs are more successful than others. More than a style-selection course, you will learn what is required to design and build an interior space, gain a general knowledge of how interior designers work, and examine what it takes to move creative designs from idea to reality. Included is a survey of important and innovative designs happening today.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Art Survey at AIC: Modernism and Beyond | 501 (001) | Joseph Cunniff | Fri
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM February 07, 2025 - April 18, 2025 |
Description
This course explores the Art Institute of Chicago's Modern Wing where students observe, discuss and learn how to analyze a work of art. Lectures and discussions give students insight into the context of specific periods and the lives of the artists. Part of a series, this course focuses on the dawn of Modernism, exploring the work of important artists such as Cezanne, Picasso, Braque, Matisse and others, and traces breakthrough developments in drawing, painting, collage and sculpture.
This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue. Art Survey at the AIC: Modernism and Beyond fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Graphic Design | 501 (002) | Mark Skillicorn | Sun
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM February 02, 2025 - April 13, 2025 |
Description
This course examines the fundamentals of two-dimensional design in the digital age. Students will explore principle elements of design including composition, color, and typography through a series of projects that introduce Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as primary graphic design tools. The importance of effective visual communication in both commercial and experimental design is stressed as students gain an understanding of the professional design process from the client brief to the finished digital project. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems, a basic design vocabulary, and an understanding of the specific role that Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop play in creating professional work. Before starting this course, students should be comfortable creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Interior Design | 501 (002) | Richard Kasemsarn | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 04, 2025 - April 08, 2025 |
Description
This course introduces the skills and insights needed to be a successful interior designer and examines why some designs are more successful than others. More than a style-selection course, you will learn what is required to design and build an interior space, gain a general knowledge of how interior designers work, and examine what it takes to move creative designs from idea to reality. Included is a survey of important and innovative designs happening today.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Art Survey at AIC: Impressionism and Post-Impress | 501 (002) | Joseph Cunniff | Sat
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
Exploring the galleries of the Art Institute of Chicago museum, this course takes advantage of one of the largest and most significant collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Gauguin, Manet, Monet, Renoir, Seurat, Toulouse-Lautrec, and van Gogh, among others. Through lectures and discussions, students will develop the ability to look closely at, analyze, and discuss the works presented as they learn about the period in which it was created.
This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue. Art Survey at the AIC: Impressionism and Post-Impressionism fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Architecture | 501 (1) | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 04, 2025 - April 08, 2025 |
|
Description
Learn how to think, plan, and draw like an architect in this engaging course focused on the design process and investigating the impact of built environments. Explore architectural design and historical and contemporary architecture as you develop the skills and knowledge to advance your studies in our noncredit certificate program or at another institution. Field trips, readings, and class projects provide an overview of both the science and art of designing buildings. All levels of experience are welcome.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Painting Studio: Multi-level | 502 (001) | Kaylee Rae Wyant | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
Description
Focus your interests, refine your skills, and learn to create a compelling and personally meaningful body of work. In-class exercises and individual painting assignments will act as the catalyst for you to discover your point of view through painting. You¿ll learn to communicate your vision and receive feedback and support from your instructor and peers in one-on-one meetings, group critiques, and discussions. You may work in the painting media (acrylic, oils, tempera, watercolor) of your choosing. Prior painting is helpful but not necessary. Introductory painting skills will not be addressed in this course.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Drawing | 503 (001) | Erik Brown | Sun
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM February 02, 2025 - April 13, 2025 |
Description
This course emphasizes the development of observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. The learning sequence progresses from simple forms and skill levels toward more complex compositions. Basic drawing elements such as line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade are investigated through various perceptual and conceptual approaches. Open to beginning students as well as those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Patternmaking and Construction: Above the Waist | 503 (001) | Kylee Marisa Alexander | Sat
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
In this course, students create, manipulate, and sew patterns that cover the upper half of the female form. Students learn to draft a basic bodice from their personal measurements or by measuring off a dress form, to create a professional sloper, as well as sleeves and collars. They will also manipulate darts, add fullness, and contour. These principles will be used to create a bodice of the student's own design.
Previous sewing experience is required. The SAIC ACE course that would provide you with introductory experience is Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Digital Design: Adobe Photoshop | 503 (001) | Kimberly Karen Viviano | Sat
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
Learn the skills you need to manipulate and enhance photographs and digital images. Explore the principal elements of design including composition, color, and typography, as you develop strategies for solving design problems, a design vocabulary, and an understanding of the key role Photoshop can play in creating professional work. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Digital Photography | 503 (001) | Lauren Koo | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 03, 2025 - April 07, 2025 |
Description
This course focuses on the foundations of photography and the various ways to use a digital camera. Students examine how to choose and shoot subjects that are both personally meaningful in content and contemporary in context. Instruction includes capturing and printing images in both black and white and color, and investigating digital photo editing. Discussions on the history of photography and individual and group critiques are included. Students must supply their own digital SLR (single-lens reflex) or mirrorless camera with manual functions; no point and shoot cameras.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| The Art of Creative Writing: Short Forms of Fiction and Poetry | 503 (001) | Emilie Jane Yardley-Hodges | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
Description
Share your raw and polished literary efforts with our supportive and dynamic community. Explore different poetic, non-fictional, and fictional forms of writing as you learn to find, build, and develop your own stories. Each class is the ideal blend of writing exercises and experiments, peer critique and feedback, and discussion of curated readings hand-picked by your instructor. All levels are welcome; no prior experience is necessary.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Drawing | 503 (002) | Helen Oh-Conklin | Sun
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM February 02, 2025 - April 13, 2025 |
Description
This course emphasizes the development of observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. The learning sequence progresses from simple forms and skill levels toward more complex compositions. Basic drawing elements such as line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade are investigated through various perceptual and conceptual approaches. Open to beginning students as well as those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Digital Design: Adobe InDesign | 504 (001) | Mary-Jo Mostowy | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 04, 2025 - April 08, 2025 |
Description
Learn the skills you need to format layout projects in InDesign. Explore the principal elements of the software including paragraph and character styles, object styles, layers, and master pages, as well as how to import graphics. Develop strategies for solving design problems, a design vocabulary, and an understanding of the key role InDesign can play in creating professional work. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course, experience with Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop is recommended.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Children's Book Illustration | 504 (001) | Alex Perkins | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 04, 2025 - April 08, 2025 |
Description
This course emphasizes the artist's role in children's picture book illustration and focuses on the world of visual storytelling. Through demonstrations and in-class assignments, students working at a variety of skill levels explore materials and techniques used to create children's book illustrations; images that guide children into a whole new imaginative universe through a sequence of memorable visual images. Creating book dummies to organize their ideas, students learn to balance text and image on the page. Students should have basic drawing skills.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Color Theory | 504 (001) | Rhonda Castillo | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
Description
Gain a competitive edge as a designer, artist, or maker by advancing your understanding of color theory. Learn about the variety of ways that color is considered and used as a design element. Working with current color theory principles and models, develop color plans and concepts in relationship to individual and group projects. This research is compiled in sketchbook/notebook format and is used as reference for independent projects. Studies and hands-on studio work reveal the multiple ways that color can transform concepts with cohesive and expressive results.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving | 505 (001) | Katie Vota | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 04, 2025 - April 08, 2025 |
Description
Learn to weave in this beginner's course, exploring traditional tapestry approaches such as interlocking, inlay, and shape-building alongside basket weave, twill, soumak, pile, rya, and twining techniques. Don¿t have a frame loom? No problem. Your instructor will walk you through building your own. Through faculty guided discussion and presentations, you¿ll also deepen your understanding of weaving's relevance in relation to material production, fine art, and craft. Presentations on contemporary handweavers supplement this studio experience. No experience is necessary.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Who Pays for All of This?: Art Collecting and Patronage for the Past, Present, and Future | 505 (001) | Noah Hanna | Sat
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
Art collectors and patrons play a major but often unseen role in art history and cultural heritage. From monarchs, and the Church, to anthropologists, and the mega donors of today¿s museums, art has long been defined and supported through expansive webs of patronage and private funding.
Making use of the Art Institute of Chicago¿s collections and Chicago¿s vibrant art community, this course explores the roots of art collecting and patronage, as well as investigating larger issues within collecting, including its ethical implications, repatriation, finance, psychology, and the personal perspectives of artists, curators, dealers, and collectors. Through lectures, discussions, and visits to museums, galleries, collections, studios, and EXPO Chicago: Chicago¿s International Exposition of Modern and Contemporary Art, this course will provide not only an introduction to art history¿s relationship to patronage but consider its present and future role, as well as how we can all be patrons of the arts. This course fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates. |
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Special Collections at AIC, SAIC, and Beyond (hybrid) | 506 (001) | Susan Musich | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
Description
This hybrid course will use collections generally not available to the public to study a variety of art forms: painting, photography, artists¿ books, video, prints, and drawings. Online sessions before each special collection visit will provide history and context.
Sample Schedule Week One: Introduction to the course, Drawings and Prints I (remote) Week Two: Prints II and III, Artists¿ Books (remote) Week Three: Jean and Steven Goldman Study Collection of Prints and Drawings (in-person) Weeks Four: Joan Flasch Artists' Book Collection (in-person) Week Five: Introduction to Photography, Modern Photography Week Six: Contemporary Photography Week Seven: Museum of Contemporary Photography (in-person) Week Eight: Chicago Imagists and Video Week Nine: Roger Brown Study Collection (in-person) Week Ten: Video Data Bank. Summary of the Course (remote) The visit to the Jean and Steven Goldman Study Collection of Prints and Drawings is scheduled outside the regular class meeting time. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Typography | 507 (001) | Kimberly Karen Viviano | Sat
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
This introduction to typography is recommended for those pursuing a career in art and design fields, and those interested in the history and development of analog and digital type. The course functions as a working lab with multiple projects guaranteed to build confidence and knowledge in typographic usage. Students learn about typographic history, type dos and don?ts, type terminology, setting copy and display text, using style sheets, type styles, and handwriting and illustrative calligraphy. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Graphic Design or equivalent experience.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Design Matters | 508 (001) | Emily Hoogesteger | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
Description
How do we form an opinion about what we see around us? How do we make decisions that are relevant in the design world? In this course, students discuss, analyze, and discover the principles of design through a comprehensive exploration of successful projects envisioned by artists, architects, theorists, and authors. This course examines problem solving through the principles of design for a variety of project types, and will include lectures, readings, and individual assignments. Class discussions will explore new aesthetic trends and examine how ideas have evolved to address new issues.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Creating Visual Language: Designing Symbols, Icons, Logos, and Infographics | 509 (001) | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
|
Description
In today's interconnected world, effective communication transcends cultural boundaries. Visual language has emerged as a universal tool for conveying information and captivating diverse audiences.
Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of shapes, symbols, and icons, tracing their evolution through history. Investigate brand identity, the art of crafting logos, and how to harness the psychology of color to evoke emotions and convey messages. You'll also gain the skills to create compelling infographics and understand practical applications of Adobe Illustrator and stock images. Cultivate the ability to engage in formal critiques, enabling you to confidently present your ideas and projects and receive constructive feedback from peers and your instructor to refine your work and fuel your artistic growth. No previous design experience is needed. Bring your passion for creative expression and explore the dynamic world of visual communication. |
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Drawing Studio:Multi-level | 510 (001) | Kaylee Rae Wyant | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
Description
This class is designed for students with prior drawing experience interested in investigating new subjects and themes while developing technical and conceptual skills through experimentation with a variety of methods and materials. Creative exploration will include exercises addressing scale, mixed-media processes, drawing formats, and series. Individual and group critique and discussions will support each student's personal direction. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Drawing or equivalent experience.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals | 511 (001) | Kylee Marisa Alexander | Sat
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
Joining fabrics to cover the body and create shelter has been a prized skill in the progress of civilization. Students will build on that tradition by learning fundamental seams and finishes used in modern day garment construction. Industry standards of sewing are emphasized and all techniques are taught and practiced. In addition to creating a personal library of seam samples, students will apply the techniques in two basic projects. The class will also discuss fabric characteristics and the proper copying and cutting of patterns. Once mastered, these techniques can be used to sew together garments from patterns, create original designs, or explore fabric as a medium for soft sculpture. No previous sewing experience is necessary.
Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Interior Design Studio: Kitchen and Baths | 511 (001) | Richard Kasemsarn | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
Description
This course is designed for intermediate and advanced students with a desire to explore concept development and production skills in interior design. Do you want to learn how to remodel a kitchen or bath? Develop and refine the critical thinking skills necessary to find design solutions for existing spaces. Students will have the opportunity to work in analog and digital formats to produce work that is inspired by a broad range of artists and designers. Prerequisite(s): Digital Drawing: Objects and Space or equivalent experience.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Expanded Printmaking | 511 (001) | Frances Lightbound | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
Description
Explore an overview of printmaking techniques that don't require a dedicated print studio. This course is designed to give a brief overview of basic printmaking processes, such as monotype, relief, image transfer, and basic screen printing. Each technique will be explored through an introductory project, culminating in one final personalized project at the end of the course. Experiment with a variety of approaches to techniques and materials, and discover the creative and critical potential of the multiple within the broader field of contemporary art and visual culture. Artists of all disciplines, both with and without prior printmaking experience, are encouraged to join.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Digital Drawing: Interior Design | 512 (001) | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 03, 2025 - April 07, 2025 |
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Description
This class is for students who want to learn how to use 3D modeling software specifically for a career in Interior Design. Learn how Autodesk AutoCAD, SketchUp, and a rendering solution can help you bring your ideas into the digital space for potential clients and colleagues to view. We will explore how to create a workflow for your interior design projects which will include space planning, furniture modeling, and applying materials for viewing and rendering. This class will also include how to draw 2D floor plans; using 3D warehouse; customizing furniture and fixtures; and setting up views and rendering. Prerequisite(s): Digital Drawing: Objects and Space or equivalent experience.
Students are responsible for their software when this course is offered online. |
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Portrait Drawing | 512 (001) | Amanda Joy Calobrisi | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
Description
Students will focus on the proportional relationships of the human head and face to achieve naturalistic resemblance in their drawings. Instruction in the use of line, shape, light, and shadow will be explored to achieve believable volumetric form. Black and white as well as color materials will be investigated. A model will be present during each class session and a variety of drawing approaches will be demonstrated. Discussion and presentations on contemporary portraiture and group and individual reviews of work are also included.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Narratives in Acrylic Painting | 512 (001) | Shonna Pryor | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 03, 2025 - April 07, 2025 |
Description
This course will provoke students to convey a compelling narrative through painting. We will experiment with various acrylic paints, mediums, surfaces, and techniques to develop a personal approach to image making. Through individual dialogue, class discussions, and critiques, students will receive feedback and direction on how to challenge their practice. We will investigate the works of artists like Mickalene Thomas, David Hockney, Christina Ramberg, Alex Katz and many others. Basic drawing and/or painting skills are useful, and non-representational artists welcome.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SketchUp for Interiors | 516 (001) | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM March 08, 2025 - April 11, 2025 |
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Description
This course is an introduction to using SketchUp, a 3D modeling and visualization tool, for interior design. Learn how to model and modify rooms, furniture, cabinets, and other elements related to interiors. Any version of SketchUp can be used for the class, including Free, Shop, Pro, and Studio. Subscription information is available at sketchup.com/plans-and-pricing.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Fashion Medium: Embroidery, Embellishments, and Sewn Elements | 518 (001) | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 03, 2025 - April 07, 2025 |
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Description
Through handwork and machine stitching, this course will cover a variety of traditional and experimental techniques for fabric embellishment and manipulation. Technical processes to be explored may include embroidery, cording, applique, trapunto, pleating, tucking, smocking, gathering, darting, and ribbon work. This course will reference historical and contemporary examples of these processes as research for inspiration. Students will create a sample book of foundation techniques and experiments, and produce a final project of their own design.
Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online. |
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Painting: Color and Light | 518 (001) | Andrew Sterrett Conklin | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
Description
Learn to paint form, space and atmospheric effects by focusing on depicting light with color. This course provides instruction in color theory as it pertains to painting practices with an emphasis on using color expressively. Paint application techniques are demonstrated and considerations for color effects, schemes, and properties are investigated in their practical application to each student's work. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Oil Painting or equivalent experience.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Portfolio Preparation | 519 (001) | Nancy Murphy Spicer | Sat
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM March 29, 2025 - March 29, 2025 |
Description
Open to students of all disciplines, this course will help you craft a portfolio that combines imagery, composition, text, and narrative to most successfully showcase your creativity, skills and passions. Perfect for certificate students preparing for Portfolio Review Day, as well as anyone interested in refining their portfolio for their website, residency or grant applications, or graduate admissions.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Comics and Graphic Novels | 519 (001) | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 05, 2025 - April 09, 2025 |
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Description
Investigate visual storytelling and drawing strategies through the contemporary art forms of comics and graphic novels. Explore a variety of illustrative approaches, such as writing, storyboarding, penciling, and inking/coloring. Building on this foundation, students learn research methods to develop ideas and produce projects that examine narrative structures, material choices, and the integration of text and image. Regular critiques, virtual visits to the Art Institute of Chicago, and exposure to contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers supplement the studio experience. Previous drawing experience is helpful but not required.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Digital Design: Adobe Illustrator | 520 (001) | Tina Brown |
TBD - TBD February 03, 2025 - April 11, 2025 |
Description
Want to use Adobe Illustrator to create sophisticated and complex designs and illustrations while you hone your skills? Learn the basics of the program before moving on to master transparency, feathering, masking, compound paths, gradients, layering techniques, and the specifics of the pen tool. In this asynchronous course, there are no set meeting times¿you learn when it's convenient for you. Weekly activities include readings, video demonstrations, tutorials, online discussions, assignments, and critiques. Receive personalized feedback from your instructor on each assignment and throughout the creative process, as needed.
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DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Sewing Techniques: Below the Belt | 522 (001) | Kylee Marisa Alexander | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM February 06, 2025 - April 17, 2025 |
Description
In this course, students learn the necessary techniques to assemble garments that cover the lower half of the female form. Instruction will focus on developing skills to create flies, hems, and waistbands. While learning industry standard techniques and tips, students sew a pair of pants and lined skirt. Students will leave with the ability to transfer their skills to commercial patterns or their own designs.
Previous sewing experience is required. The SAIC ACE course that would provide you with introductory experience is Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals |
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| The Artist and the Sketchbook | 530 (001) | Frances Lightbound | Sat
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM February 01, 2025 - April 12, 2025 |
Description
Cultivate a regular sketchbook practice to develop new ideas, stay accountable to your creative goals, and refine the direction of your work. Explore sketching, collaging, painting, and writing, as you investigate how the personal nature of an artist's sketchbook can catapult work to the next level. During one class meeting, handmade sketchbooks are made using an array of book construction methods. You will also review the history of artists¿ sketchbooks and visit the Art Institute of Chicago for inspiration.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Oil Painting | 531 (001) | Shonna Pryor | Sun
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM February 02, 2025 - April 13, 2025 |
Description
This course introduces the materials, methods, and tools of oil painting while students develop observational skills. Demonstrations on stretching canvas, laying out a palette, working with various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide students with the fundamentals of the medium and a strong foundation for future work.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Introduction to Oil Painting | 531 (002) | Shonna Pryor | Sun
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM February 02, 2025 - April 13, 2025 |
Description
This course introduces the materials, methods, and tools of oil painting while students develop observational skills. Demonstrations on stretching canvas, laying out a palette, working with various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide students with the fundamentals of the medium and a strong foundation for future work.
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Contact Us
Continuing Studies staff members are available Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. –4:30 p.m. CT at 312.629.6170 or cs@saic.edu to answer your questions. We are here to help!