Valerie Ann Xanos

This course focuses on drawing as an exciting tool for organizing thoughts, feelings, and images. Students develop and strengthen fundamental skills, as well as investigate a range of traditional and contemporary drawing materials and concepts, exploring essential elements of 2D design and contemporary art. Through the study of line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour, students experiment with a number of wet and dry media such as charcoal, graphite, ink, and water-based paints. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago and discussion of practicing artists supplement the studio experience (virtual tours of the museum are featured if online). This course is recommended for both beginners and those wanting to improve and develop their current skills and ideas. Note: In-person Figure Drawing, Figure Painting, Painting, and Drawing courses may use nude models hired by the School. Other classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Designed for students who want to explore and experiment with contemporary and interdisciplinary processes in drawing and painting, while developing a daily artistic practice to sustain creativity. Work outside your comfort zone with feedback and support from your instructor and peers as you explore a variety of experimental techniques and concepts, including poetics, mark making, space, and embodiment prior to undertaking an independent project of your own choosing. This is an ideal course for those who want to think differently about their creative practice.