At CSS, the Department of Fine Arts is a community of artist-scholars who are passionate about the fine and performing arts, committed to diversity and inclusion, and determined to improve the lives of others through art. With studies in Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts, CSS serves students of all skill levels and instills within them a lasting connection to their discipline, to each other, and to their respective communities here and abroad. Students engaging in the fine arts seek to engage deeply with the human experience by developing their intellectual capacity to create art, advance their practical skills, and thinking broadly about creativity and synthesis.
It is encouraging to observe the number of mass media pieces indicating how current and future employers are seeking well-rounded, liberal arts students, sensitized by their experiences in the arts. In addition, this generation of students bring a level of diversified interests that lead them to not just one fine arts discipline, but to all, embracing curiosity, a fervent love of learning, and a passion for creativity.
Programs
The Fine Art Department offers these programs:
Secondary Education
A B.A. in Music K-12 Education is also available.
Contact Information
Art Courses
Introduces students to different media and processes in studio art, reviews major movements in art history and introduces terminology to discuss art processes and products.
Introduces black and white photography: basic camera operation, film and print development, exposure and photo history and aesthetics. Students will also learn about photojournalism and digital photography. A 35 mm manual camera is required. The student must purchase film and paper.
Develops the student’s sense of familiarity and ease with drawing materials as well as his/her sense of perception, which goes beyond the limitations of habit. It also explores subjective approaches to subject matter. Traditional situations and materials form the basis of the course.
Studies the elements and the principles of design and their application to fine art and commercial art. Various media are used to experiment with both two- and three-dimensional structures.
Examines works of art produced during the 20th century, starting in 1870 with the art of the Impressionists. Focus on analyzing how artists’ subjects and styles are shaped by and express opinions about historical events, social ideologies and theoretical issues in visual culture. Investigate how works of art functioned within their time, as well as their relevance to how we perceive art currently. While Art History typically is explored by the use of images, lectures and reading, this course will also delve into the subject using group discussions, videos, and hands-on activities which may include field trips and guest speakers.
Courses not a part of the regular curriculum but taught because of a special need, interest or opportunity.
Focuses on use of software to create original artwork and manipulate digitized photographic images. Software tools and techniques are demonstrated. Principles of design are illustrated. Evaluation is based on originality, aesthetics, mastery of technique and overall effectiveness. ART 1124; and/or ART 1107 recommended.
Explores painting both as a practical application of a tool for Art-making as well as addressing its historical applications as an art form. Examines color, form, composition, and expression, enables further personal expression with paint.
Trains students to understand and be more sensitive to the perception and use of color. A combination of lecture, projects and experiments explores color pigment and physics of color. ART 1124 recommended.
Traces the evolution of nonfiction (documentary) and fiction film forms from 1895 to the present; summarizes research describing persuasive effects by means of lecture, screenings, assigned readings and oral presentations.
The meaning and development of American Indian art forms. Expressions in symbolic form of Indian philosophy and religion are presented. The course involves a study of the traditional and contemporary forms of American Indian music, including local and alternative music.
Explores the zone system for 35mm and various black and white print and film processes including infrared and kodalith stocks, print toning and other special effects. Students will also work with studio lighting and view cameras and become familiar with both fine art and commercial studio photography aesthetics and practices.
Advances technical drawing skill, expands awareness of drawing processes and purposes and develops individual expression through drawings. Color is introduced.
Concentrates on using acrylic to explore painting techniques. Students experiment with subject matter, color, space and composition in a traditional form.
Introduces digital image making. Students work with digital SLR cameras and the latest photographic software to produce an entirely digital portfolio. Composition and visual aesthetics are emphasized. Digital SLR cameras are provided by the school.
Develops basic skills in observational life drawing, through studying and learning to draw the human skeleton, the muscular structure, and physical model.
Introducing Illustration as a field, students in this course will exercise fundamental drawing and design skills and will become familiar with principal genres and artists within the field. Exploring a variety of illustration techniques, this course centers on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the creation of narrative-driven imagery.
Courses not a part of the regular curriculum but taught because of a special need, interest or opportunity.
Beauty & Death surveys different aesthetic theories of the sublime throughout the history of philosophy. Sublime experiences, whether found in nature or art are traditionally considered the most intense of all possible aesthetic feelings. Whereas beauty promotes notions of formal unity harmonizing within limits, the sublime contemplates chaos, death, and feelings that overwhelm the human imagination. The resulting affect has been at times called a feeling of 'negative pleasure' where feelings of beauty and horror become inextricably entangled. As an aesthetic concept the sublime has changed drastically in meaning from classical Greek thought to Enlightenment philosophy and its contemporary rebirth in postmodern aesthetics. However, what all these theories have in common is a focused attention placed on the problem of contemplating the unknown. Thus, in relation to art, nature, and perception the primary aesthetic question of the sublime is deeply involved with dilemma of how to 'present the unpresentable.' Readings of primary texts will be supplemented by illustrative paintings, music, poetry, fiction, secondary literature, and weekly screenings of films that both correspond and clarify each week's readings.
Explores the fundamental building blocks of powerful data visualization and the tools and experience needed to create them. Examines the influential data visualization from the past and present along with the methods used to critique these works. This includes the ethical issues and bias revolving around data visualizations and the use of data to tell stories from a particular point of view. The course will introduce students to practical applications using current data management and visualization software.
Principles of design for print materials include the use of space in layout, type selection, copy fitting and familiarity with printing processes. Use of the computer and desktop publishing, as tools in the design process, will be investigated.
Focus on artwork created over the 19th and 20th centuries in both Ireland and Great Britain, this course will investigate the history, identity, political and geographic resonance of the people and their cultures. In particular, we will examine political murals created in Northern Ireland, the work of Existentialist figurative painter Francis Bacon, and the evolution of British Art from the Pre-Raphaelites to Modern Sculptors Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth, through lectures, reading and site-specific engagement.
Examines socially engaged visual art through historical and contemporary lenses. Looking at a range of works from the art of John Heartfield and Kathë Kollwitz in response to war in Germany to anonymous contemporary artists commenting on systems of oppression like The Guerilla Girls and Banksy, students will employ critical analysis through reading, writing and discussion. Examining how or why art could be considered "an instrument of war," as Picasso so famously intoned, will be a primary focus as students culminate their studies through researching a contemporary issue and creating work in response.
Applies the fundamentals covered in CME 2041. Students will learn to apply these through exploration of typography, photography and illustration in graphic design from inception through to pre-press. A strong emphasis is placed on layout, hierarchy, advertising design, branding, visual identity systems and integration of concepts with visual elements.
Explores the process of creating public works of art and all requirements and responsibilities that go into works designed for the public. Application procedures, working with public and private institutions, design and ideation processes and fabrication techniques will be covered. The history of public art across multiple cultures and ideologies will be addressed through lectures and discussions.
Film Topics engages a changing variety of advanced issues of cinematic representation and genre discussion in Film Studies at an Upper Division level with a Writing Intensive focus. Topics change annually, but course requirements remain the same. Readings are advanced and students write about films, meetings, proposals, draft revisions and an in-class writing workshop. The goal is to engage advanced topics in Film Studies through writings and discussions linking film form and content. The ethics of representation is a key focus of discussion along with formal analysis of ‘how’ identities are aesthetically represented.
Focused instruction on rendering portraits from life. Students will garner skills to draw and paint the human visage formalistically and expressively, with the intent of utilizing the figure for a personal means of artistic expression.
Provides a sequence of conceptual painting problems based upon modern and contemporary artistic practices as well as historical applications. Engages specific topics in painting, defines personal voice and develops an informed individual aesthetic. Course can be taken for 2-6 credits and/or repeated for a total not exceeding six credits.
Studies color photographic aesthetics and theory; these principles are then applied to the practice and technique of landscape photography. Digital SLR cameras are required and are provided by the school.
Approaches to the creative process with mixed media that includes building technical mark-making skills while engaging in the visualization of emotional expression. Topics include art historical movements in expressionism, analysis of contemporary artists, embracing ambiguity in the creative process, along with visualizing ideas, feelings, identity, and values through individual and collaborative art experiences.
Develops a greater level of conceptual knowledge and technical skill, through drawing utilizing observation, portraiture and experimentation with a variety of mediums and techniques. Enhances depth of knowledge through critical readings, demonstrations, visiting artists, and/or visits to contemporary art exhibitions. Course can be taken for 2-6 credits and/or repeated for a total not exceeding six credits.
Uses methodologies from across the field of design to apply creative problem solving to real world problems. Students will unlock their creative potential through concept development, applied creativity, prototyping, and experimentation, and will apply this practice to various types of problems to foster change and positively impact environments.
Courses not a part of the regular curriculum but taught because of a special need, interest or opportunity.
Independent study.
Explores the shifting relevance of Art in contemporary society, through readings, discussions and guest speakers. Examines the context in which current critics and theorists work, explores analytic philosophy, structuralism, post-structuralism, epistemology and post-colonial studies.
This course studies the life, significant work, and unique artistic choices made by different historically significant film directors. The directors studied can be considered artists insofar as they establish consistent artistic signatures as authors of films while successfully working within the restrictions of the film industry.
Enhances skills in observational life drawing. Emphasizes drawing the human figure efficiently, realistically, and expressively, eventually utilizing the figure for a personal means of expression. This two-credit course can be repeated up to three times.
Explores late 19th and early 20th century printing techniques as alternatives to modern photo methods. Students use the sun as a light source to print cyanotypes (blue prints), van dyke (brown prints) and gum bichromate images. Modern techniques such as infrared photography are also included.
Focuses on building practical applications for Art Majors and Minors. Includes the creation of a professional website, resume, writing samples specifically focused on grants, graduate school applications and artist statements. Visits to galleries, studios, design houses, and museums will form the basis for discussions about contemporary art and for critical writing assignments. Explores the transition from student to professional; employment; networking; gallery contracts; grant applications; graduate school options; trends in contemporary art.
Develop a body of work with personal interest for a group or solo exhibition.
Internship
Develop a body of work based on a personal theme and prepare it for a solo exhibition. The course performs a secondary role of preparing students for a career in art after graduation.
Courses not a part of the regular curriculum but taught because of a special need, interest or opportunity.
Individual research or production projects are chosen by the student and approved by instructor. May be taken twice for credit, each time in a different area.
Music Courses
Surveys the knowledge and "tools" that one must be aware of as a musician in current times. Students are introduced to and explore the sounds and language used by musicians to discuss, analyze, interpret, create and perform music (conceptual and practical). Students will develop their musicianship through the practice of skills on their primary instrument, their voice/bodies, the piano, composition, and improvisation. Students will be asked to be civic minded in their pursuit of musical knowledge--how can and should musicians be relevant in modern society.
Basic musicianship course, including study of materials and language of music: pitch, rhythm, meter, intervals, chords, part-writing, analysis of masterworks. Approach is from both conceptual and performance standpoint: hearing, writing, playing, singing.
Non-auditioned Men’s ensemble that rehearses and performs choral works from a variety of genres and historical periods. 3 hours of rehearsal per week.
Non-auditioned Women’s ensemble that rehearses and performs choral works from a variety of genres and historical periods. 3 hours of rehearsal per week.
Study and performance of steel band repertoire.
Class piano for beginners. Course is open to majors whose performance area is other than piano and to nonmajors.
Private instrumental for vocal study. Lab Fees: $360.00 15 30-minute lessons; Final exam is recording of performance 1 credit equates to 2 hours of practice per week expectation
Private music instruction for Instrumental/vocal students. Lab fee required.
Private music instruction for Instrumental/vocal students. Lab fee required.
Topics in Music.
Study of conducting technique, score study and responsibilities of a conductor of an ensemble.
A project that demonstrates student achievement and synthesis of work to this point in their musical studies. For Music Minors, this represents the culmination of their achievements within our program. For Music Majors it is an indication of the student’s progress toward degree completion.
A survey of instrumental techniques for the Vocal Music Education major. Students will survey string, percussion, brass, and woodwind instrumental groups for a basic understanding of the requirements necessary for interpreting and producing music from a score. Students will learn applicable rehearsal techniques in working with instruments in a choral rehearsal setting.
Develops performance skills and learns teaching strategies for string instruments. Required for instrumental music education licensure, course topics cover performance techniques, instrument care and maintenance, instrument selection, technology integration, instructional materials, performance assessment and diverse solo and ensemble repertoire selection.
Develops performance skills and learns teaching strategies for woodwind instruments. Required for instrumental music education licensure, course topics cover performance techniques, instrument care and maintenance, instrument selection, technology integration, instructional materials, performance assessment and diverse solo and ensemble repertoire selection.
Develops performance skills and learns teaching strategies for brass instruments. Required for instrumental music education licensure, course topics cover performance techniques, instrument care and maintenance, instrument selection, technology integration, instructional materials, performance assessment and diverse solo and ensemble repertoire selection.
Develops performance skills and learns teaching strategies for percussion instruments. Required for instrumental music education licensure, course topics cover performance techniques, instrument care and maintenance, instrument selection, technology integration, instructional materials, performance assessment and diverse solo and ensemble repertoire selection.
We explore the richness and diversity of several Latin American musical and dance cultures, developing an understanding of the cultural, historical, and sociopolitical frameworks for their vibrant and popular forms. Understanding each musical culture as a hybrid mixture of indigenous expression, Spanish or Portuguese empire, and African diaspora, we examine the contribution of all of these cultural and musical elements to national identity, global politics, and commercial success.
Students cultivate an entrepreneurial approach to their art, connecting with audiences and creating value in our communities. They learn how to promote ourselves as the architects of their future: through self-assessment, creativity, social capital, and as an artist/producer.
Topics in music.
Advanced study of Western music theory including 18th-century counterpoint, form and analysis, and chromatic harmony.
Study and application of 20th- and 21st-century Western music theory; study and application of principles of orchestration and arranging.
Explores the history and literature of art music in Europe and the Americas, MUS 3113 focuses on music from the beginning of Western civilization through the transition to the Classic era. Topics of study include musical styles, genres, contexts, composers, processes of change, and interrelationships with other arts and societal structures of the time.
Explores the history and literature of art music in Europe and the Americas, MUS 3114 focuses on music from the height of the Classic era through the first part of the twenty-first century. Topics of study include: compositional styles, genres, contexts, composers, processes of change, and interrelationships with other arts and societal structures of the time.
Social movements are peoples’ collective efforts to transform history. Across cultures, they are one of the few ways that the poor and marginalized seek empowerment and make social change. This course examines political movements from the unique perspective of popular music performers who, throughout history and across cultures, have used speech, song, and poetry as liberating and mobilizing forces for political action. By exploring ideologies and historical events through the experiences of these artists and their communities, we consider how categories such as ethnicity, race, religion, class, and gender affect the workings of power in performance.
Select treble ensemble that rehearses and performs choral works from a variety of genres and historical periods. 3 hours of rehearsal plus required sectional each week. Tours regularly. Year-long commitment required.
Select mixed ensemble that rehearses and performs choral works from a variety of genres and historical periods. 3 hours of rehearsal plus required sectional each week. Tours regularly. Year-long commitment required.
Rehearsal and performance of quality band literature.
Rehearsal and performance of different styles of jazz through listening, playing and improvising.
Rehearsal and performance of string ensemble repertoire from the Renaissance through the present.
Study of art, folk, and popular music of both Eastern and Western cultures and relationship of the music to the history, geography and society of the region. No musical experience necessary.
Study of vocal performance pedagogy and vocal health, including the child voice and the changing voice.
Develops and refines rehearsal technique and conducting skills in a choral setting.
Develops skills in conducting and rehearsal techniques plus knowledge of literature and materials for use in teaching instrumental music.
Develops knowledge and skills needed in order to teach general music.
Investigate teaching and learning for instrumental music settings. Required for instrumental music education licensure.
Investigate teaching and learning for choral music settings. This class is part of a two-course series, although the courses are designed so they can be taken non-sequentially. Required for vocal music education licensure.
Chamber Choir is a select mixed ensemble (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) chorus that rehearses and performs primarily a cappella choral music from a variety of genres and historical periods. Tours regularly. Year-long commitment required.
Prepares students for teaching secondary classroom music. Required for Vocal and Instrumental Music Education licensure.
Investigate teaching and learning for choral music settings. This class is part of a two-course series, although the courses are designed so they can be taken non-sequentially. Required for vocal music education licensure.
Private music instruction for Instrumental/vocal students. Lab fee required.
Private music instruction for Instrumental/vocal students. Lab fee required.
Topics in music.
Chamber music studied and performed in weekly rehearsals with opportunities offered for public performance. Ensembles are open to all College students; audition or permission of instructor required.
The capstone project is the culmination of the student’s achievements in the music program, demonstrating synthesis of musical knowledge and musicianship.
Topics in music.
Theatre Courses
Designed for the student who has a beginning interest but no formal background in theatre. The course is divided into two parts: a focus on the appreciation of live productions, followed by a basic history of the "lively art" form.
Offers 1 to 4 credits for technical work on a production. Students who enroll in the course will earn credits through experiential learning. Students will either work regular hours in the theatre or work as a crew member for a production. One credit requires 30 hours of work on the production.
Acting actually has very little to do with "acting." Modern approaches to acting are based on an individual's responding realistically to imaginary situations. Much of this beginning course will focus on relaxation and concentration exercises as well on as exercises which tap the imagination and help to release the emotional reactions appropriate for a scene. Students will perform monologues and scenes as well as improvisations.
Introduces modern set-building used in theatre technology. Students develop knowledge of sound and lighting equipment properties, power tools, drafting skills, production budgets and material used to produce a realized production.
Students will learn the art of improvisation through participatory lab experiences and independent research and observation.
Students learn how to perform in a theatrical production- emphasis is on character development, line memorization, rehearsals, teamwork, and all the other production elements. This course culminates with a public performance. Students may enroll for 1 or 2 credits for performing in a mainstage production. Students must be cast in a production or obtain the permission of the director to enroll in the course, but no theatrical experience is required to audition. Rehearsal hours are arranged and will be announced after the production is cast.
Surveys major historical developments in theatre from the birth of theatre performance in ancient Greece, through Roman theatre to medieval liturgical drama. The course concludes with Elizabethan theatre and includes study of technical developments as well as historical contexts. Classes focus on production as well as the literary interpretation.
Surveys major historical developments in theatre from the Restoration through the 20th century. The readings focus on the change in realism with the influence of psychoanalysis, absurdism, surrealism and ethnic theatre. Literary and historical components of the plays are addressed. Classes focus on production as well as the literary perspective.
Introduces students to British culture, specifically the city of London. Once the center of the British Empire and still one of the most significant cultural centers of Western Europe, London offers an exciting and artistically rich study and travel experience for students of all majors. This education abroad course will include three weeks in London and includes a three-day excursion to Stonehenge, Bath and Stratford-upon-Avon. CME 3950 will provide students with the opportunity to learn about the rich tradition of theatre in London, and the itinerary will include eight performances at different venues, tours of theatres, and participation in at least two theatre workshops. Traveling with ENG 3950/HON 3950, both groups will have several shared cultural experiences including a Shakespeare walking tour, Globe Theatre tour, and various museum visits.
Basic stages of the directing process. From script analysis to coaching actors, students will plan their own one-act play production. Under the supervision of the instructor, the students will hold production meetings, audition and cast a play, block and rehearse the selection, coordinate light and sound cues, and oversee the technical rehearsals and the performance.
Introduces students to three types of theatre genres: Greek, Elizabethan and Modern. Students will be introduced to the three types of design disciplines: scenes, costumes and lights. Students will learn how to analyze and convert literature into visual images through metaphors, symbolism and realism.
Independent Study