ARTS Courses for Fall 2026
Please click on the course title for more information.
|
ARTS 105 01 - Drawing I
|
Course: |
ARTS 105 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Drawing I |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
A foundational course that explores observational strategies and theories of perception using a range of drawing tools. Project work is focused on observational drawing methods with attention to the articulation of line, shape, time, form, gesture, perspective, and value. In-class drawing exercises, weekly homework assignments, and group critiques address a variety of approaches to image making and visual expression, with some attention put towards the human figure. Aimed at first years and sophomores and those considering majors in Studio Art or Architecture. Also recommended for those considering majors in Media Arts and Sciences, or Art History. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
None. Open to First-Years, Sophomores, and Juniors. Seniors by permission of the instructor. |
|
Notes: |
Required for majors and minors in Studio Art as well as majors in Architecture. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
|
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 202 Drawing Studio Art Classroom - TF 12:45 PM - 3:25 PM |
|
ARTS 105 02 - Drawing I
|
Course: |
ARTS 105 - 02 |
|
Title: |
Drawing I |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
A foundational course that explores observational strategies and theories of perception using a range of drawing tools. Project work is focused on observational drawing methods with attention to the articulation of line, shape, time, form, gesture, perspective, and value. In-class drawing exercises, weekly homework assignments, and group critiques address a variety of approaches to image making and visual expression, with some attention put towards the human figure. Aimed at first years and sophomores and those considering majors in Studio Art or Architecture. Also recommended for those considering majors in Media Arts and Sciences, or Art History. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
None. Open to First-Years, Sophomores, and Juniors. Seniors by permission of the instructor. |
|
Notes: |
Required for majors and minors in Studio Art as well as majors in Architecture. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Kathryn Sartoris Abarbanel |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 202 Drawing Studio Art Classroom - MR 2:20 PM - 5:00 PM |
|
ARTS 109 01 - Two-Dimensional Design
|
Course: |
ARTS 109 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Two-Dimensional Design |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
This foundational studio course addresses the issue of composition in two-dimensional media. It focuses on the fundamental elements of visual design (e.g., line, shape, value, space, color) and their compositional impact. Studio projects emphasize visual problem-solving skills as a means of achieving more effective communication, with some attention to the issues of typography. Assignments explore a range of media and encourage creative experimentation with both analog and digital processes. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
None. Open to First-Years, Sophomores, and Juniors. |
|
Notes: |
|
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Kathryn Sartoris Abarbanel |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 208 Drawing Studio Art Classroom - MR 9:55 AM - 12:35 PM |
|
ARTS 112 01 - Introduction to Book Studies
|
Course: |
ARTS 112 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Introduction to Book Studies |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
This studio course addresses the theoretical and practical aspects of the manufacture, publication, distribution, and survival of the book. Studio projects in Clapp Library's Book Arts Lab explore themes such as the evolution of the book form, the sequencing of image and text, and the relationship between form and content. Class sessions will feature demonstrations, visiting artists, and presentation of Special Collections materials. Readings and studio projects culminate in a book-based studio project. The knowledge base and skills acquired in this course can be applied to advanced coursework in a variety of disciplines. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
None. Open to First-Years, Sophomores, and Juniors. Seniors by permission of the instructor. |
|
Notes: |
Wendy Judge Paulson '69 Ecology of Place Living Laboratory course. This course does not satisfy the Natural and Physical Sciences Laboratory requirement. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Katherine McCanless Ruffin |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Margaret Clapp Library 450 Book Arts Laboratory - MR 9:55 AM - 12:35 PM |
|
ARTS 113 01 - Three-Dimensional Design
|
Course: |
ARTS 113 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Three-Dimensional Design |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
This introductory course explores the basic formal and spatial considerations when working with three-dimensional structure and form. Studio projects incorporate a range of materials and methods of visualization. Outside assignments and class discussions are aimed toward helping students enhance their creativity and spatial awareness while acquiring sensitivity for placement, process, and materials. Required for Architecture majors. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Open to First-Years, Sophomores and Juniors. Priority given to declared Architecture majors. |
|
Notes: |
Wendy Judge Paulson '69 Ecology of Place Living Laboratory course. This course does not satisfy the Natural and Physical Sciences Laboratory requirement. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Andy W. Mowbray |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 102 2D/3D Studio Classroom - TF 9:55 AM - 12:35 PM |
|
ARTS 164 01 - Time-Based Media I
|
Course: |
ARTS 164 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Time-Based Media I |
|
Credit Hours: |
1 |
|
Description: |
Time-Based Media I provides a focused introduction to the creation and analysis of video art within contemporary screen culture. The course bridges technical proficiency with creative theory by linking the history of the medium to modern media consumption, from traditional cinema to social media formats. Students explore themes of identity, performance, and social issues, learning to transform everyday experiences into meaningful artistic projects. A practical focus of this introductory class is building professional digital habits and understanding how the moving image fits into different worlds, including cinema, art galleries, and live performances. Through weekly screenings, student presentations, and discussions, students develop the creative and critical skills needed to navigate today’s visual landscape. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
None |
|
Notes: |
|
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Cross Listed Courses: |
MAS 164 01 - Time-Based Media I
|
|
Instructors: |
Claudia Joskowicz |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 309 Flex Media Studio Art Classroom - M 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM
Pendleton West 309 Flex Media Studio Art Classroom - W 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM |
|
ARTS 189 01 - Photo I - Introduction to Darkroom Photography
|
Course: |
ARTS 189 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Photo I - Introduction to Darkroom Photography |
|
Credit Hours: |
1 |
|
Description: |
Photo I is a foundational studio course exploring key methods and concepts in analog photography. Technical skills will be addressed through camera and camera-less work and traditional darkroom practices. Studio assignments, readings, discussions, lectures, and group critiques will enable students to develop the conceptual, aesthetic, and critical skills necessary for understanding photography's broader role in contemporary art, history, and society. Aimed for first-year and sophomore students, and those pursuing majors in ARTS, MAS, or CAMS. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
None |
|
Notes: |
|
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Kathya Maria Landeros |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Jewett Arts Center 464 Media Arts Photography Classroom - MR 2:20 PM - 3:35 PM |
|
ARTS 205 01 - The Graphic Impulse: Mediated Drawing
|
Course: |
ARTS 205 - 01 |
|
Title: |
The Graphic Impulse: Mediated Drawing |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
An intensive, intermediate studio course addressing a range of contemporary drawing approaches, with considerable attention put towards color, graphic production and mixed media pictorial strategies. Project work integrates print and digital design tools with freehand drawing in various media. Weekly assignments, readings, and studio discussions consider the graphic conventions inherent to reproducible media. Building on fundamental concepts introduced at the 100 level (particularly in ARTS 105 and ARTS 109), this course helps students strengthen and expand their personal drawing practice and connect it to a wider range of creative disciplines that integrate hand and machine. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
At least one 100-level ARTS course taken at Wellesley.
|
|
Notes: |
Ann E. Maurer '51 Speaking Intensive Course. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Cross Listed Courses: |
MAS 205 01 - The Graphic Impulse: Mediated Drawing
|
|
Instructors: |
Phyllis McGibbon |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 309 Flex Media Studio Art Classroom - TR 6:30 PM - 9:10 PM |
|
ARTS 207 01 - Sculpture I
|
Course: |
ARTS 207 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Sculpture I |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
This intermediate level studio course addresses a range of sculptural approaches by way of various materials, including clay, wood, metal, plaster, and cardboard. Each of these materials will be used to explore a specific technique or sculptural method such as carving, modeling, or fabrication. By the end of the semester, emphasis shifts towards the completion of more independent projects and conceptual questions regarding the tangible impact of materials, functions, and histories on sculptural artworks. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Any 100-level ARTS course or permission of the instructor required. |
|
Notes: |
Strongly recommended for Architecture majors. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Andy W. Mowbray |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 106 Clay Studio Sculpture Art Classroom - TF 1:30 PM - 4:10 PM |
|
ARTS 218 01 - Painting I
|
Course: |
ARTS 218 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Painting I |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
An intermediate studio course centered on the fundamental issues of painting, emphasizing color, composition, and paint manipulation through direct observation and response. Studio assignments, presentations, discussions and critiques help students gain technical skills, visual sophistication, and critical awareness of the medium. Students paint from a variety of subjects, including the self-portrait, nude model, and still life. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Any 100-level ARTS course, or permission of the instructor. |
|
Notes: |
This course may be repeated once for credit. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Daniela Rivera |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 211 2D Studio Art Classroom - MR 8:30 AM - 11:10 AM |
|
ARTS 220 01 - Print Methods: Intaglio/Relief
|
Course: |
ARTS 220 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Print Methods: Intaglio/Relief |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
A studio exploration of intaglio and relief printing methods, including copperplate etching, collograph, and woodcut. Students develop visual and graphic flexibility through hands-on projects considering image sequences, pattern, text, and multiples. Several projects address color and typography and/or incorporate digital methods. Students participate in a collaborative print exchange in addition to completing individual projects. ARTS 219, ARTS 220, and ARTS 221 are complementary graphic arts courses and may be elected in any order. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Any 100-level ARTS course or permission of the instructor required. |
|
Notes: |
Ann E. Maurer '51 Speaking Intensive Course. ARTS 219, ARTS 220, ARTS 222 and ARTS 223 are complementary print media courses and may be elected in any order. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Phyllis McGibbon |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 312 Printmaking Studio Art Lab - TF 1:30 PM - 4:10 PM |
|
ARTS 221 01 - Digital Imaging
|
Course: |
ARTS 221 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Digital Imaging |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
Introduction to artistic production through electronic imaging, manipulation, and output. Emphasis on expression, continuity, and sequential structuring of visuals through the integration of image, text, and motion. Image output for print, screen, and adaptive surfaces are explored in conjunction with production techniques of image capture, lighting, and processing. Lectures and screenings of historic and contemporary uses of technology for artistic and social application of electronic imaging. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Any 100-level ARTS course. |
|
Notes: |
|
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Cross Listed Courses: |
CAMS 239 01 - Digital Imaging
|
|
Instructors: |
David Olsen |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Jewett Arts Center 247 Digital Art Computer Studio - TF 1:30 PM - 4:10 PM |
|
ARTS 264 01 - Time-Based Media II
|
Course: |
ARTS 264 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Time-Based Media II |
|
Credit Hours: |
1 |
|
Description: |
This intermediate course focuses on the creation of film and video projects that combine performance, installation, and analog media. Students examine interdisciplinary approaches by linking contemporary digital tools to their historical and analogue foundations.
By experimenting with techniques such as looping, physical interventions on film, and the body in space, students learn to manipulate sound and image both technically and conceptually. By the end of the term, students will be able to place their moving image work within the broader legacy of experimental time-based media. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Any ARTS 100 class or permission of the instructor. |
|
Notes: |
|
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Cross Listed Courses: |
MAS 264 01 - Time-Based Media II
|
|
Instructors: |
Claudia Joskowicz |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 309 Flex Media Studio Art Classroom - W 12:30 PM - 3:10 PM |
|
ARTS 317H 01 - Advanced Independent Senior Projects
|
Course: |
ARTS 317H - 01 |
|
Title: |
Advanced Independent Senior Projects |
|
Credit Hours: |
0.5 |
|
Description: |
Part I of a year-long seminar supporting advanced studio students, divided into one half-credit course offered during the Fall semester and one half-credit in the Spring. This methodology-based course functions as an overlay to advanced studio projects underway in the context of 300 level studio classes and thesis projects. Students enrolled in the course will have access to independent workspace for the year and benefit from sustained dialogue and studio critiques with a range of faculty and visiting artists, including those hosted through the Frank Williams Visiting Artist Lecture Series. This course is mandatory for all Studio Art majors and strongly recommended for Studio Art minors and related visual arts majors. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
ARTS 105 and two other 100-level studio courses, and either (at least two 200-level studio art courses; or one 200-level and one 300-level studio art course). Permission of the instructor required. |
|
Notes: |
Each semester of ARTS 317H and ARTS 318H earns one half unit of credit; however, both semesters must be completed satisfactorily to receive credit for either course. This course may be repeated once for credit, with the permission of the department. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Daniela Rivera |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Jewett Arts Center 244 Painting Art Studio - F 9:55 AM - 12:35 PM |
|
ARTS 321 01 - Advanced New Media
|
Course: |
ARTS 321 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Advanced New Media |
|
Credit Hours: |
1.25 |
|
Description: |
Various topics in New Media are explored through research, creative activity, and theoretical discussion. Topics address historical as well as contemporary issues that bridge art and technology. This is an advanced level New Media course giving students the opportunity to focus on personal projects, explore contemporary and historical new media concepts as well as receive critiques from other students. Topics covered will focus on media history and research, contemporary intermedia artists, designers, thinkers and scientists, along with readings and discussions. Collaboration will be encouraged between Studio Art, Architecture, Music, CAMS, Media Arts, Theater and Computer Science. This course may be used to fulfill the capstone requirement for MAS. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
Two 200-level courses in ARTS, CAMS, or MAS. |
|
Notes: |
This course may be repeated once for credit. |
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Cross Listed Courses: |
CAMS 321 01 - Advanced New Media
|
|
Instructors: |
David Olsen |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Jewett Arts Center 247 Digital Art Computer Studio - TF 9:55 AM - 12:35 PM |
|
ARTS 389 01 - Photo III - Advanced Photographic Projects
|
Course: |
ARTS 389 - 01 |
|
Title: |
Photo III - Advanced Photographic Projects |
|
Credit Hours: |
1 |
|
Description: |
Building on Photo I and Photo II, this class offers an advanced exploration of aesthetic and content issues through the use of both traditional light-sensitive and digital methodologies. Advanced photographic techniques and equipment, including printing techniques, will be presented in response to each student's work. Continued emphasis is placed on research into the content and context of the photographic image and refinement of techniques and conceptual intent in contemporary practice through research, production, and critique, visiting artist events, as well as gallery and/or museum visits. |
|
Prerequisite(s): |
One of the following - ARTS 108/CAMS 138, ARTS 208/CAMS 238; or permission of the instructor required. |
|
Notes: |
|
|
Distribution(s): |
Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video |
|
Instructors: |
Kathya Maria Landeros |
|
Meeting Time(s): |
Pendleton West 309 Flex Media Studio Art Classroom - M 9:55 AM - 12:35 PM |
|