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Early College Program Classes Courses

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A photo of a person on a computer with a snake animation; text says "ECP Animation Studio"

Animation Studio: Ages 14–18

SAIC’s Animation Studio is a wonderful teen art class for students who want to bring their drawings to life. Our experienced instructors will teach high school art students techniques such as frame-by-frame, stop-motion, and storyboarding. Advanced instruction in composition, set making, and props will enhance your creative development in this weekend art class located in downtown Chicago. 

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A photo of a student working with a fashion mannequin

Fashion Construction: Ages 14-18

Learn how to design, construct, and sew your own garments, including pattern making! Begin by developing original pattern blocks, explore pattern drafting and draping, and then document your three-dimensional exploration with photography and/or drawing. Through visits to the Art Institute of Chicago and access to the Fashion Resource Center at SAIC in combination with research and sketchbooks, develop your concept and design from flat and paper patterns to final fabric construction. 

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A photo of a high school student sitting in front of a canvas with text that reads ECP from Drawing to Painting

From Drawing to Painting: Ages 14–18

From Drawing to Painting is a teen art class for students who have a background in drawing, but little to no painting practice. Experienced instructors will teach this small group art class skills such as line, volume, space, form, and function. High schoolers will further their creative development with visits to the Museum of the Art Institute of Chicago in this weekend art class. A variety of materials are used such as pastels, water-based paints, and collage.

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Title Catalog Instructor Schedule

Description

Delve into the world of architecture, where creativity meets innovation. This course invites students to explore how architects transform concepts into captivating shapes, immersive spaces, and iconic buildings. Engage in a dynamic process that encourages experimentation with diverse forms and techniques, including foundational drawing, perspective, drafting, and advanced 3D modeling. During the course, you will tackle a variety of thought-provoking prompts and design challenges, utilizing materials such as chipboard, basswood, and foam core to bring your imaginative ideas to life in three-dimensional form. As a culmination of your journey, you will showcase your final projects, including compelling prints and drawings, tangible 3D models, or polished digital presentations. To enrich your understanding, you will also explore the influence of visionary artists, designers, and architects like Frank Gehry and Robert Irwin, examining how their work shapes digital and atmospheric experiences in design. While prior experience is not required, a familiarity with computers will enhance your creative process. Join us in this collaborative environment where art and architecture intersect, igniting your passion for design in exciting new directions.

Class Number

1168

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Architecture

Location

Online

Description

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available¿all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1152

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 125

Description

This engaging course invites you to unleash your creativity as you explore innovative design methods and materials, focusing on illustration, styling, draping, and fabric selection rather than the construction of specific garments. You'll learn about the rich history of fashion and discover research techniques that will spark your imagination. Plus, you'll examine contemporary works and practices currently reshaping the fashion industry. Visits to SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, a treasure trove of fashion history and stunning collection of garments and accessories, and the Art Institute of Chicago's collection of art and textiles will inspire your designs. Throughout this course, you'll create unique textile and garment designs while exploring how clothing communicates who you are. You'll develop skills in fashion illustration, draping, and even patternmaking while gaining a deeper understanding of garment history and contemporary designers. Whether you're new or have some experience, this course will help you unlock your design potential and express yourself through the powerful medium of fashion.

Class Number

1153

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 703

Description

This class is perfect for artists eager to explore the thrilling world of digital art. Start with traditional drawing techniques and then transition into the digital realm using software like Procreate. As you progress through the course, you'll have the chance to build a portfolio filled with digital creations, perfect for showcasing online or in print¿think posters and zines. Projects will cover everything from designing unique characters and creating cool merch like enamel pins, stickers, and tees to crafting vibrant digital paintings and illustrations for children's books. Plus, get inspired by guest presentations from contemporary illustrators influencing the art world with their boundary-pushing styles and innovative techniques.

Class Number

1157

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Illustration

Location

Sharp 331

Description

This course is intended for students with little to no oil painting experience and introduces this medium's specific materials and processes. You'll get hands-on experience with essential skills through demonstrations on stretching canvases, setting up your paint palette, and applying various techniques. You'll also learn how to mix colors. These foundational skills will prepare you to create work for your portfolio. Throughout the course, you'll delve into color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective while painting from observation. Experiment and discover your unique artistic voice and style in a supportive and encouraging environment. Basic drawing and water-based painting experience is required. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1166

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 321

Description

This engaging course invites you to unleash your creativity as you explore innovative design methods and materials, focusing on illustration, styling, draping, and fabric selection rather than the construction of specific garments. You'll learn about the rich history of fashion and discover research techniques that will spark your imagination. Plus, you'll examine contemporary works and practices currently reshaping the fashion industry. Visits to SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, a treasure trove of fashion history and stunning collection of garments and accessories, and the Art Institute of Chicago's collection of art and textiles will inspire your designs. Throughout this course, you'll create unique textile and garment designs while exploring how clothing communicates who you are. You'll develop skills in fashion illustration, draping, and even patternmaking while gaining a deeper understanding of garment history and contemporary designers. Whether you're new or have some experience, this course will help you unlock your design potential and express yourself through the powerful medium of fashion.

Class Number

1173

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

This course is intended for students with little to no oil painting experience and introduces this medium's specific materials and processes. You'll get hands-on experience with essential skills through demonstrations on stretching canvases, setting up your paint palette, and applying various techniques. You'll also learn how to mix colors. These foundational skills will prepare you to create work for your portfolio. Throughout the course, you'll delve into color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective while painting from observation. Experiment and discover your unique artistic voice and style in a supportive and encouraging environment. Basic drawing and water-based painting experience is required. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1174

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 323

Description

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available¿all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1156

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 321

Description

This class is perfect for artists eager to explore the thrilling world of digital art. Start with traditional drawing techniques and then transition into the digital realm using software like Procreate. As you progress through the course, you'll have the chance to build a portfolio filled with digital creations, perfect for showcasing online or in print¿think posters and zines. Projects will cover everything from designing unique characters and creating cool merch like enamel pins, stickers, and tees to crafting vibrant digital paintings and illustrations for children's books. Plus, get inspired by guest presentations from contemporary illustrators influencing the art world with their boundary-pushing styles and innovative techniques.

Class Number

1165

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Illustration

Location

Sharp 331

Description

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available¿all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1160

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

Online

Description

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available¿all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1171

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 323

Description

In this exciting course, you'll have the chance to bring your fashion ideas to life, from inspiration to finished garments. You'll start crafting original pattern blocks, then explore drafting and draping techniques. Along the way, you'll document your journey with dynamic photography and sketches that capture your creative process. Inspiring field trips to places like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Fashion Resource Center at SAIC help you transform your flat patterns into stunning fabric creations. You'll be free to experiment with various materials, including paper, muslin, secondhand clothing, and fabric off the bolt. This hands-on approach will allow you to express your unique style and vision. By the end of the course, you will create pieces that showcase your aesthetic and equip you with essential skills in garment construction.

Class Number

1162

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 701

Description

In this exciting course, you'll have the chance to bring your fashion ideas to life, from inspiration to finished garments. You'll start crafting original pattern blocks, then explore drafting and draping techniques. Along the way, you'll document your journey with dynamic photography and sketches that capture your creative process. Inspiring field trips to places like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Fashion Resource Center at SAIC help you transform your flat patterns into stunning fabric creations. You'll be free to experiment with various materials, including paper, muslin, secondhand clothing, and fabric off the bolt. This hands-on approach will allow you to express your unique style and vision. By the end of the course, you will create pieces that showcase your aesthetic and equip you with essential skills in garment construction.

Class Number

1172

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 701

Description

This is a program developed by partner organization A Long Walk Home and hosted by SAIC. Girl/Friends Leadership Institutes empower teen girls to use art to advocate for themselves and other girls and design campaigns and policies to end dating violence, sexual assault, and street harassment in their Chicago schools and communities, ultimately changing the face of leadership in the women's movement. Open enrollment is not available in this course. Students apply and are accepted to this program through A Long Walk Home.

Class Number

1302

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Seminar

Location

Sharp 1114, Sharp 1214, Sharp 1213, Sharp 1108

Description

Drawing inspiration from live models and the exquisite garments housed in SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, create eye-catching fashion illustrations that showcase your unique style. You'll learn the essentials of illustration tailored for different fashion applications, whether for retail or editorial work. Explore body proportions, movements, and poses to help you bring your designs to life. Mastering perspective is critical; you'll discover how to apply just the right amount of exaggeration and stylization for captivating results. You'll also learn about the textures and drapes of various fabrics and how they relate to body form and movement. To inspire your work, you'll study the techniques of influential fashion illustrators throughout history and today. Plus, you'll get to experiment with various creative media like colored pencils, pastels, pens, markers, and water-based paints. While some drawing experience is helpful, what matters is your passion and imagination. Prepare for a dynamic learning environment where you can express yourself and elevate your fashion illustration skills.

Class Number

1161

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 734

Description

Unlock your creativity in our dynamic figure drawing course. Here, you'll have the opportunity to work from a live nude model, honing your skills by observing the human form. Expect an exciting mix of rapid sketches and longer poses paired with inspiration from photographs and your imagination. Explore the essential elements of life drawing¿like anatomy, proportion, composition, and expressive techniques¿focusing on using black and white media such as graphite, charcoal, and conte crayon to bring your visions to life. Challenge yourself with exercises like blind contour drawing and memory sketches that will push your artistic boundaries. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, presentations on inspiring historical and contemporary artists, and constructive critiques will help you grow. This course is perfect for newcomers eager to explore their creativity and those looking to enhance their artistic skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1169

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

This course is your chance to mix traditional techniques with cutting-edge digital methods as you experiment with everything from drawing and sculpture to image transfer, collage, laser cutting, and 3D printing. Begin with exciting mini-projects and hands-on demonstrations to spark your imagination and get your ideas flowing. You'll refine your concepts through engaging discussions before completing a final project reflecting your unique style and interests. Plus, you'll explore the latest trends in art, showcasing inspiring work from contemporary artists pushing boundaries today.

Class Number

1154

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Fundamentals

Location

Sharp 331

Description

Unlock your creativity in our dynamic figure drawing course. Here, you'll have the opportunity to work from a live nude model, honing your skills by observing the human form. Expect an exciting mix of rapid sketches and longer poses paired with inspiration from photographs and your imagination. Explore the essential elements of life drawing¿like anatomy, proportion, composition, and expressive techniques¿focusing on using black and white media such as graphite, charcoal, and conte crayon to bring your visions to life. Challenge yourself with exercises like blind contour drawing and memory sketches that will push your artistic boundaries. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, presentations on inspiring historical and contemporary artists, and constructive critiques will help you grow. This course is perfect for newcomers eager to explore their creativity and those looking to enhance their artistic skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1159

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 321

Description

This course introduces students to traditional and nontraditional materials and techniques used in water-based painting. Projects involve painting from observation and imagination, drawing inspiration from contemporary artists and historical masters. Explore a variety of subjects using materials like ink, acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media. You'll enhance your understanding of color, tone, volume, contrast, and temperature as you bring your ideas to life. Additionally, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago will provide further inspiration. Students should have previous drawing experience, but no painting experience is necessary. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1158

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 325

Description

Discover the powerful language and history behind visual storytelling through engaging demonstrations and hands-on exercises to spark your imagination and inspire your creativity. You'll have the opportunity to research and discuss the works of groundbreaking artists, culminating in a final project that reflects your unique vision. Throughout the course, you'll blend traditional techniques¿like sketching in your journal¿with digital tools such as Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere. Inspiring field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and SAIC's extensive video resources deepen your understanding of the art form. Lively discussions about influential time-based artists like Tony Oursler, Shirin Neshat, Alfred Hitchcock, and Jennifer Steinkamp will enrich your creative journey. No prior experience is necessary, but being comfortable with computers will give you a helpful edge.

Class Number

1163

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Film, Video, New Media,Anim

Location

280 Building Rm 120

Description

This course is perfect for students passionate about drawing but new to painting. Build your drawing skills as a solid foundation to explore exciting new painting techniques as you define your unique artistic vision with the guidance of your instructor. You will explore essential skills such as line, volume, space, materiality, form and function, and color. Various traditional and contemporary materials will be utilized, including graphite, charcoal, pastels, water-based paints, mixed media, and collage. Additionally, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago and discussions about contemporary artists will enhance the studio experience and inspire students to develop conceptual ideas in their artworks. By the end of this course, you'll have a deeper understanding of different art materials and the confidence to transition from drawing to painting. This course is beneficial for beginners as well as those looking to refine and enhance their skills. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1155

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Painting and Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

This course is perfect for students passionate about drawing but new to painting. Build your drawing skills as a solid foundation to explore exciting new painting techniques as you define your unique artistic vision with the guidance of your instructor. You will explore essential skills such as line, volume, space, materiality, form and function, and color. Various traditional and contemporary materials will be utilized, including graphite, charcoal, pastels, water-based paints, mixed media, and collage. Additionally, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago and discussions about contemporary artists will enhance the studio experience and inspire students to develop conceptual ideas in their artworks. By the end of this course, you'll have a deeper understanding of different art materials and the confidence to transition from drawing to painting. This course is beneficial for beginners as well as those looking to refine and enhance their skills. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Class Number

1175

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Painting and Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

Discover the exciting world of animation as you bring your drawings and ideas to life. In this course, you'll explore traditional and digital animation techniques, such as frame-by-frame and stop-motion. Get ready to work on various cool projects that let you express your imagination through motion studies, character and environment design, and captivating storytelling. You'll learn cinematic techniques, including composition, set design, and prop creation, while developing a final project that reflects your unique goals and interests. To enhance your experience, enjoy artist presentations, take inspiring trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and engage in dynamic group discussions.

Class Number

1164

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Film, Video, New Media,Anim

Location

MacLean 917

Description

Investigate visual storytelling through the dynamic art forms of comics and graphic novels. This course invites you to explore a range of creative techniques, including writing, storyboarding, penciling, inking, and coloring. Building a solid foundation in research methods will help you brainstorm and develop your ideas. You'll create compelling projects that explore narrative structures and seamlessly blend text with stunning visuals. Regular critiques will allow you to sharpen your skills. At the same time, inspiring visits to the Art Institute of Chicago will allow you to connect with contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, this class is about unleashing your creativity and finding your unique voice in the art world.

Class Number

1170

Credits

1

Department

Early College Program

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 306

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!