Molly Colleen O'Connell

Investigate visual storytelling strategies through the contemporary art forms of alternative comics and graphic novels. This course introduces various illustrative approaches, such as writing, storyboarding, penciling, inking/coloring, and prepress preparations, with a diverse exploration of materials including pencil, pen, ink, and collage. Building on this foundation, students learn research methods to develop ideas and produce conceptually-driven, portfolio-quality works through projects that examine narrative structures, material choices, and the integration of text and image. Students are introduced to contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers who transcend the traditional approaches of comics and graphic novels to generate their own audiences. Regular critiques and field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Contemporary Art, and/or local galleries and comic shops supplement the studio experience.

NOTE: Previous drawing experience required. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.

Bring your creative interests and learn traditional and non-traditional drawing and painting techniques in this exciting class. You will work one-on-one with your faculty as you push your skills to the next level. You may choose to work in a variety of media- wet and dry media, ink, pencil, charcoal, collage, observational drawing, storyboarding, or a combination of different materials. The course will include demonstrations geared to your passions, visiting artist presentations, as well as time for self-directed work and comprehensive faculty advising. You¿ll engage in discussions and critiques with your peers, create portfolio-quality work, and receive comprehensive guidance on developing competitive applications for college admissions to art and design programs.

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 and those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.

The Department of Painting and Drawing offers a wide variety of comics courses, ranging from traditional to experimental methods and techniques. Each course is designed to focus on a specific area of comics production. To learn more about the topic of a specific comics course in which you are interested, please review the course description for that particular class.

A significant parallel exists between comics and fiber in that both stem from utilitarian imperatives: the basic communicative power of comics, and the functionality and tactility of textiles. This course explores the history, techniques, concepts, and dissemination of comics in relation to fiber and fine art. Ideas of abstraction, simplification, the icon, and universality, the relationship of image and text, and sequential imagery are explored. Discussing traditional gallery shows and publications in contrast with the implications of self-publishing, zines, graffiti, and public art is a very important part of this course. An enthusiastic approach to experimentation in form and materials is highly encouraged.

The world of contemporary comics is surveyed, as well as many contemporary artists who make comic-based or inspired work. Some of the artists we will study include Lynda Barry, Scott McCloud, Faith Ringgold, Peter Blegvad, Megan Whitmarsh, Jessica Campbell, and many others.

Studio instruction includes screen-printing, embroidery, heat press, collage and piecing, with a variety of materials including fabric and paper, as well as computer imaging. Students should expect to produce a body of work, both installation and publication, consisting of 3-5 finished pieces for critique during the semester, weekly reading responses, and independent research.