An
artist begins with intent and preparation. However, in
the working process, forms may take on a life of their own and the approach
must then become more adaptive. Familiar techniques may have to be discarded;
new techniques may have to be invented. My teaching works on the same
model. I prepare based on experience but I try to remain open to the moment,
to this particular setting with these individuals; therefore both endeavors
are characterized by an ongoing process of re-evaluation.
Areas of concentration;
Drawing
Line quality as the essential entry point; that is how the artist’s
investment becomes evident to the viewer. Most of the drawing classes
have emphasized observational traditions so I demonstrate many of the
Renaissance techniques that are so reliable for beginners; sightlines,
perspective, grids, etc. They learn how to analyze form and how to use
the elements of design to create expressive, integrated compositions.
In their work I look for strong form and the emergence of the student's
individual presence on the page.
2-D Design
A broad range of reference materials illustrates the universality of design
elements; everything from film stills to applied art. We study the thinking
of designers to learn how to use brainstorming, chance, and divergent
thinking to develop ideas. Technical emphasis is on hand skills and good
presentation.
Mixed Media
Techniques of collage, assemblage, image transfer, monoprinting, found
materials and bookforms broaden the range of creative problem-solving.
The historical development of collage by the Surrealists is studied as
well as a wide range of contemporary art. There is more of an emphasis
on conceptualizing and allowing content to dictate process. For students
who have progressed through the basic foundations courses, this is a good
creative challenge and transition to advanced classes.
Calligraphy
Class covers the techniques of chisel-point pen with some exposure to
other tools and calligraphy of other cultures. Emphasis is on pen angle,
line quality, proportions, spacing and clarity of design. It is a good
way to learn the abstract qualities of design without the burden, for
beginners, of representational likeness. The practice of repetition encourages
kinesthetic learning. Lectures cover the evolution of the alphabet.
Much of my own artistic development has taken place while viewing artwork
in museums so it has always been my passion to pass along the opportunity
for those charged encounters to students. We visit exhibitions and many
assignments are built around those artworks. From 2006 - 2009 I took
on the duties of gallery director at Dutchess Community College and have
mounted a number of exhibits specifically as teaching tools for classes.
Examples
of student work
