Program in Visual Arts
Director
Joseph S. Scanlan
Acting Director
Brian M. Jermusyk (fall)
Executive Committee
Ze’eva Cohen, Lewis Center for the Arts, Dance
Jill S. Dolan, English, Lewis Center for the Arts, Theater
Jeffrey Eugenides, Lewis Center for the Arts, Creative Writing
Su Friedrich, Lewis Center for the Arts
Emmet W. S. Gowin, Lewis Center for the Arts
Chang-rae Lee, Lewis Center for the Arts, Creative Writing
Susan Marshall, Lewis Center for the Arts, Dance
Paul B. Muldoon, Lewis Center for the Arts, Creative Writing
Joyce Carol Oates, Lewis Center for the Arts, Creative Writing
James Richardson, English, Lewis Center for the Arts
Joseph S. Scanlan, Lewis Center for the Arts
P. Adams Sitney, Lewis Center for the Arts
Edmund V. White, Lewis Center for the Arts, Creative Writing
Stacy E. Wolf, Lewis Center for the Arts, Theater
Professor
Su Friedrich, also Lewis Center for the Arts
Emmet W. S. Gowin, also Lewis Center for the Arts
Joseph S. Scanlan, also Lewis Center for the Arts
P. Adams Sitney, also Lewis Center for the Arts
Senior Lecturer
Eve M. Aschheim, also Lewis Center for the Arts
Lecturer
Ann G. Agee
Dawn M. Clements
Brian M. Jermusyk
Jocelyn D. Lee
Allan G. Macintyre
Andrew L. Moore
John J. O’Connor
Keith J. Sanborn
The Program in Visual Arts, part of the Lewis Center for the Arts, allows interested undergraduates to explore the modes of thought and practice of visual media and to develop their creative skills in connection with a general program of humanistic education. Courses are offered in ceramics, digital and analog photography, drawing, film and video production, film history and criticism, painting, printmaking, sculpture, installation art, and a seminar in contemporary art.
All courses in the program are open to all students at Princeton. A few courses are by application only. The courses are letter graded (not pass/D/fail) and may be taken in fulfillment of the distribution requirement in LA (Literature and Arts). Summer courses and study abroad are accepted, but only with the prior approval of the program director. AP credit is not accepted.
For students interested in pursuing studio arts, there are two options. The first is Program 2, the concentration offered by the Department of Art and Archaeology in cooperation with the Program in Visual Arts that has as its focus the visual/studio arts with an art history component. The second option is a visual arts certificate done in addition to a student’s departmental concentration. Students wishing either to study film history/theory or do film/video production may pursue this track within the visual arts certificate program in collaboration with departments that accept a creative or written thesis in film.
Prerequisites and Admission
Admission to both Program 2 in Art and Archaeology and the visual arts certificate program is selective. By the first Tuesday following spring break, students submit an application and a portfolio of creative work (or an essay on cinema in the case of those applying for the track in film and video) to the Lewis Center for the Arts administrative office. The admissions committee will notify students accepted into the program by early April. For specific prerequisites, please see the individual areas below.
Program 2: History of Art and Visual Arts
A concentration in the visual arts, combining studio art and art history, for students who will do a creative thesis. For program requirements, see the Program 2 description under the Department of Art and Archaeology (page 101).
The Visual Arts Certificate
Overview. A certificate in visual arts will be awarded to students who successfully complete a substantial program of studio work and other requirements, as summarized below, while concentrating in another academic department. Students interested in a certificate in visual arts should submit a portfolio in the spring semester of the sophomore year. Normally students must complete two of the required visual arts courses before being admitted to the program. One course in art and archaeology is also recommended.
Course Requirements. A total of seven courses combined from the Program in Visual Arts and from the Department of Art and Archaeology, as follows:
a) Five visual arts courses, which must include studio courses in at least two different media, and at least two 300- or 400-level studio courses.
b) VIS 392 Issues in Contemporary Art or a cognate. This particular course is strongly recommended for studio artists, for whom it has been specifically designed. However, it is possible to substitute a relevant 300- or 400-level seminar directly related to the medium a student practices with the prior permission of the director of the program. This course fulfills one of the five visual arts course requirements.
c) Two art and archaeology courses, one of which must be in the modern period (19th century to the present).
Junior Independent Work. In the fall, students select two advisers from the Program in Visual Arts and complete the Certificate Adviser Approval Form. The junior independent work is done in consultation with the student’s advisers, and also with the general visual arts faculty in “open studio” meetings. The advisers’ spring-term grade for the junior independent work represents an evaluation of the entire year’s studio work. The junior independent work is exhibited in a group show at the beginning of the senior fall semester.
Senior Independent Work—The Creative Thesis. In the fall, students select two advisers from the Program in Visual Arts and complete the Certificate Adviser Approval Form. The creative thesis studio work is done in consultation with the student’s advisers, and also with the general visual arts faculty in “open studio” meetings. Students present their work in an exhibition at the end of the year, usually in a two-person show with another certificate or Program 2 student. The grade for the senior independent work represents an evaluation of the entire year’s studio work and is the average of two grades: (1) the average of the grades given by the student’s two advisers and (2) the average of the grades given by the rest of the visual arts faculty who view the senior exhibition.
Track in Film and Video
Students interested in film and video production or criticism and analysis may pursue the film and video track within the visual arts certificate program while concentrating in another academic department. Requirements for this track are summarized below. To enter this track, students must have the approval of their department of concentration to submit a written critical/historical thesis on a film-related topic or present a creative film work in fulfillment of the senior thesis. Normally students in this track must complete a production course and a course in film history or theory before being admitted to the program.
The five visual arts courses that students in the film and video track take must include:
a) One course in film/video production (VIS 261/262, VIS 361/362, VIS 462)
b) Two courses in film history (any course listed by the Film Studies Committee) and one visual arts seminar in film theory or history.
c) At least two other courses (either in film production or academic courses in film history).
Please note: Three cognates are accepted within the above group. Independent work requirements for the track in film and video are consistent with those set forth for the visual arts certificate program. Junior projects and senior theses may be submitted as historical or theoretical essays or as creative works in film, video, or an installation based on either or both media. Where these projects can fulfill the requirements of the visual arts certificate and the student’s department of concentration, they will be jointly advised by faculty members from the program and the student’s home department. Where the independent work is not completed in conjunction with requirements for the student’s home department, the work will be supervised by two faculty members from the Program in Visual Arts.
Certificate of Proficiency
Students who fulfill the requirements of the program receive a certificate of proficiency in visual arts upon graduation.
Credit Courses
VIS 201, 202 Introductory Drawing (also ARC 201, 202) Fall, Spring LA
This course approaches drawing as a way of thinking and seeing. Students will be introduced to a range of drawing issues, as well as a variety of media, including charcoal, graphite, ink, and oil stick. Subject matter includes still life, the figure, landscape, and architecture. Representation, abstraction, and working from imagination will be explored. A structured independent project will be completed at the end of the term. Two three-hour studio classes. E. Aschheim, J. O’Connor (fall)
VIS 203, 204 Introductory Painting (also ARC 327, 328) Fall, Spring LA
An introduction to the materials and methods of painting. The areas to be covered are color and its interaction, the use of form and scale, painting from a model, painting objects with a concern for their mass and interaction with light. Two three-hour studio classes. B. Jermusyk, D. Clements (fall)
VIS 211, 212 Introductory Photography Fall, Spring LA
An introduction to the processes of photography through a series of problems directed toward the handling of light-sensitive material, camera, and printing. Weekly laboratory sessions will explore the critical issues of the medium in relation to both student work and the work of guest photographers. One three-hour class and three hours of independent laboratory. Prerequisite: instructor’s permission. E. Gowin, A. Macintyre, A. Moore (fall)
VIS 221, 222 Introductory Sculpture Fall, Spring LA
A studio introduction to sculpture, particularly the study of form, space, and the influence of a wide variety of materials and processes on the visual properties of sculpture. Students will develop an understanding of contemporary sculpture and a basic technical facility in a variety of materials and processes. Two three-hour studio classes. M. Friedman (fall)
VIS 231, 232 Ceramics Fall, Spring LA
An introductory-level course designed for students interested in learning the fundamentals of working with clay. A wide variety of hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques will be taught, enabling students to make utilitarian vessels as well as sculptural forms. Students will learn about glazing and colored engobe application methods and how to operate electric and gas kilns. Studio work will be complemented by readings, field trips, and slide presentations. Two three-hour studio classes.
A. Agee (fall)
VIS 242 Film Genres: The First Five Decades of Cinema Fall LA
A historical examination of a film genre—e.g. comedy, documentary, detective film (also called film noir). The object of the course will be the understanding of the uniquely cinematic aspects of each genre, studied against the backdrop of parallel literary genres (e.g., comedy from Aristophanes to Beckett; documentary fiction and essays; 19th- and 20th-century detective fiction). One genre will be the topic of the course each year. Two 90-minute classes, one film screening. P. Sitney
VIS 261, 262 Introductory Video and Film Production Fall, Spring LA
A film/video course introducing the techniques of shooting and editing digital video. Works of film/video art are analyzed in order to explore the development of, and innovations in, cinematic language. Production is oriented toward film/video as a visual art, including narrative, documentary, and experimental genres. Several short video projects produced during the semester. Two three-hour classes. Prerequisite: instructor’s permission. K. Sanborn
VIS 303, 304 Intermediate Painting Fall, Spring LA
This course is designed to allow students to explore more deeply the process and meaning of painting. Students will complete a set of structured assignments and are encouraged to develop an independent direction. Contemporary critical theory is integrated into the course. Two three-hour studio classes. Prerequisite: 203, 204 and instructor’s permission. E. Aschheim
VIS 309 The Handprinted Image: Intaglio and Lithography Spring LA
An introduction to fundamental techniques of copper plate etching, lithography, and relief printing. Assignments focus on applications of various printmaking techniques, while encouraging independent development of subject matter. Critiques will occur throughout the term. Students are encouraged to draw regularly outside of class to cultivate themes and content applicable to their prints. Field trips to the University’s museum and the library’s graphics collection will complement class work. Two three-hour classes. K. Deeds
VIS 312 Introduction to Color Photography Fall, Spring LA
Theory, processes, and applications of color photography as an artistic medium, exploring camera technique, color film, and darkroom printing methods. Students investigate the formal issues presented by color as an element of the medium and analyze visual content in the broader project of photographic image-making. Prerequisite: 211 or 212 and instructor’s permission. One three-hour class. J. Lee
VIS 313 Intermediate Photography Fall LA
A continuation of 211 or 212, this course focuses on photo chemistry, print-making methods, and the view camera. The connections between traditions of art, philosophy, science, and photography will continue to be important. One three-hour class and three hours of independent laboratory. Prerequisites: 211, 212, or equivalent experience and instructor’s permission. E. Gowin
VIS 315 Digital Photography Fall, Spring LA
An advanced seminar and lab which explores the aesthetic and theoretical implications of digital technology in relation to photography. The emphasis is on making the photographic print in the digital work space. Class will consist of both independent and collaborative projects. One three-hour class, one three-hour laboratory. Prerequisites: 211 or 212, or instructor’s permission. A. Macintyre
VIS 341 Women and Film (see WOM 306)
VIS 342 The Cinema from World War II until the Present (also COM 361) Spring LA
The history of sound, and color film produced since World War II. Emphasis on Italian neorealism, French New Wave, American avant-garde, and the accomplishments of such major film makers as Bergman, Hitchcock, Bresson, and Antonioni. Modernism in film will be a central consideration. One three-hour class, weekly film screenings. P. Sitney
VIS 343 Major Filmmakers Fall LA
This seminar will treat in depth the work of two or three filmmakers of major importance. Specific subjects will vary. P. Sitney
VIS 344 Special Topics in Film History Spring LA
This seminar will deal in some detail with an aspect of film history, focusing on an important movement or exploring a significant issue. Specific topics and prerequisities will vary. P. Sitney
VIS 347 Topics in French Cinema (see FRE 391)
VIS 348 Screenwriting as a Visual Medium (see CWR 348)
VIS 361, 362 Intermediate Video and Film Production Fall, Spring LA
A second-level film/video workshop focusing on digital media production. Short works of film/video art will be analyzed in class as a guide to the issues of aesthetic choice, editing structure, and challenging one’s audience. Students complete two short videos and a longer final project, and view one film each week outside of class time. Prerequisites: 261 or 262 and instructor’s permission. One three-hour seminar. K. Sanborn (fall)
VIS 372 Theatrical Design (see THR 317)
VIS 392 Issues in Contemporary Art (also ART 392) Fall LA
A required seminar for art and archaeology Program 2 majors and visual arts certificate students emphasizing contemporary art practices and ideas. The course addresses current issues in painting, drawing, sculpture, film, video, photography, and ceramics. It includes a visiting artist lecture series, critiques of students’ work, and excursions to galleries, museums, and artists’ studios. One three-hour class. C. Tomaszewski
VIS 401 Advanced Drawing Fall LA
A studio course in which students are encouraged to develop an independent direction while being challenged with projects on issues such as: narrative, abstraction, conceptual strategies, collage, computer-aided drawing, and drawing-based installation. Sources include photography, drawing from life, and utilizing one’s own imagination. Study of developments in contemporary drawing will parallel the course projects. Prerequisites: 201, 202, and instructor’s permission. Two three-hour classes.
J. O’Connor
VIS 403, 404 Advanced Painting Fall, Spring LA
A studio course focused on advanced problems in painting practice, including pictorial structure in abstraction and representation, color in relationship to space and light, working process, and materials. This course, although structured, encourages development of independent work. Group critiques will be conducted. Students gain awareness of historical models as well as contemporary art, as they build and analyze the relationship between student work and contemporary painting culture. Two three-hour studio classes. Prerequisites: 303 or 304 and instructor’s permission. Staff
VIS 411 Advanced Problems in Photography Spring LA
Student-initiated problems in photography will be explored in close working relationship with the instructor. Emphasis will be on integrating practice and critical thought. One three-hour class, three hours of independent laboratory. Prerequisites: 211 or 212, and/or 313, and instructor’s permission. Staff
VIS 421 Advanced Sculpture Spring LA
A studio course in which formal problems are raised and explored through a range of materials. The central focus is on analysis and exploration of the nature of sculptural space. Two three-hour studio classes. Prerequisites: 221 or 222 and instructor’s permission. Staff
VIS 442 Film Theory Spring LA
An examination of the central texts and abiding issues of the theory of cinema. Properties of the shot as a unit of film construction and its relationship to the space of reality are analyzed. Different kinds of film structures and their theoretical underpinnings are studied. P. Sitney
VIS 443 Topics in Modern Italian Cinema (see ITA 310)
VIS 444 Cinema and the Related Arts (also COM 444) Fall LA
A seminar examining the ways in which filmmakers have used one of the other arts as part of the self-definition of cinema as an autonomous art. One or two such interactions will be the focus of the course, and will vary by term (e.g., painting, architecture, poetry, narrative fiction). P. Sitney
VIS 445 Fascism in Italian Cinema (see ITA 312)
VIS 446 Marxism in Italian Cinema (see ITA 313)
VIS 448 Screenplay Adaptation (see CWR 448)
VIS 461, 462 Advanced Video and Film Production Fall, Spring LA
A third-level film/video course to further develop video production skills. Students have the option of spending the term either creating a single long work or a series of short pieces. Short weekly shooting exercises. Students view one film each week outside of class time. Two three-hour classes. Prerequisite: 361 or 362 and instructor’s permission. S. Friedrich
VIS 471, 472 Special Topics in Visual Arts Fall, Spring LA
Advanced work in special areas of the various visual media or in areas where the traditional media intersect (for example, typography, video, photo printmaking). Specific topics will change from year to year, and prerequisites will vary.
C. Tomaszewski