Program Overview
The BFA in Illustration at Watkins College of Art equips students with the skills and vision to excel in the field of illustration. Through a studio-based curriculum, students develop artistic proficiency, storytelling abilities, and an understanding of the contemporary illustration industry. The program fosters creativity, professional development, and prepares graduates for successful careers in various illustration domains.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
BFA in Illustration at Watkins College of Art:
This program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and creative vision to excel in the field of illustration. It provides a supportive environment that fosters personal growth through a stimulating liberal arts education. The studio-based curriculum emphasizes artistic development, entrepreneurial skills, and an understanding of the contemporary illustration industry.
Objectives:
- Develop strong artistic skills and techniques in various media.
- Cultivate a unique artistic voice and aesthetic.
- Understand the history and contemporary trends in illustration.
- Gain proficiency in storytelling and visual communication through illustration.
- Develop a professional portfolio and prepare for a successful career in illustration.
Description:
The BFA in Illustration program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of the field, including:
- Drawing and figure studies: Building foundational skills in observation, anatomy, and rendering.
- Color theory and application: Understanding color relationships and their impact on visual communication.
- Concept development and storytelling: Mastering the art of translating ideas into compelling visual narratives.
- Character design and development: Creating distinctive and memorable characters for various media.
- Digital illustration techniques: Utilizing industry-standard software for digital creation and manipulation.
- Art and design history: Understanding the evolution of visual art and its influence on contemporary illustration.
- Professional practices and portfolio development: Building a strong portfolio and gaining insights into the business of illustration. The program also integrates internships and opportunities to participate in local, regional, and national competitions, providing students with real-world experience and professional recognition.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Studio courses: Focusing on developing technical skills and artistic vision through individual and collaborative projects.
- History and theory courses: Providing a foundation in art history, design principles, and contemporary trends in illustration.
- Professional development courses: Preparing students for successful careers in illustration, including portfolio development, self-promotion, and business practices.
Program Structure:
- Requires 128 credit hours for completion.
- Includes core requirements, major requirements, electives, and internship opportunities.
Individual Modules:
- Drawing: ART 1040, Figure Drawing
- Digital Imaging: ART 1400, Digital Imaging
- Introduction to Illustration: ART 2110, Intro to Illustration
- Pictorial Problems: ART 2120, Illustration II: Pictorial Problems
- Digital as Designed Object: ART 2025, Digital as Designed Object
- Typography: Layout: ART 2430, Typography: Layout
- Typography: Form: ART 2431, Typography: Form
- Typography: Kinetic: ART 2432, Typography: Kinetic
- World Art - Pre-Modern: ART 2800, World Art - Pre-Modern
- World Art - Early & Modern: ART 2810, World Art - Early & Modern
- Visual Narratives: ART 3110, Illustration III: Visual Narratives
- Illustration Special Topics: ART 3130, Illustration Special Topics
- History and Philosophy of Design: ART 3440, History and Philosophy of Design
- Illustration Portfolio: ART 4910, Illustration Portfolio
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Studio critiques and feedback from faculty.
- Individual and group projects.
- Final portfolio reviews.
- Participation in exhibitions and competitions.
Assessment Criteria:
- Technical proficiency and artistic skills.
- Creativity and originality.
- Conceptual understanding and problem-solving ability.
- Effective communication through illustration.
- Professionalism and presentation.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Individualized instruction and mentorship.
- Small class sizes and personalized attention.
- Emphasis on active learning and collaborative projects.
- Visiting artists and industry professionals.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies.
Faculty:
Experienced and dedicated faculty with professional backgrounds in illustration, design, and art education.
Unique Approaches:
- Focus on developing a strong artistic voice and individual style.
- Integration of traditional and digital techniques.
- Emphasis on storytelling and visual narrative development.
- Exposure to diverse career paths within the illustration industry.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Freelance illustrator
- In-house illustrator for advertising agencies, publishing houses, design firms, etc.
- Character designer for animation studios and video game companies.
- Children's book illustrator
- Comic book artist
- Medical illustrator
- Editorial illustrator
- Concept artist
- Storyboard artist
Career Opportunities:
- Internships with leading creative firms and agencies.
- Opportunities to exhibit work in galleries and professional competitions.
- Networking with industry professionals and alumni.
Other:
- The program is located in Nashville, Tennessee, a vibrant hub for the creative industries.
- The program offers scholarships and financial aid to eligible students.