The
course aims to deliver a general understanding of the elements of
painting, working both from observation of the real and with a
processual approach. The course is studio-based, some elements of theory
and the history of art will be discussed.


Although the course is not focused on figurative painting per se it does
stress the importance of attempting to represent the real.


Through a series of incremental exercises, students will be lead
through, and face, some of the basic aspects of the production of images
through the means of painting.


The course will encourage approaches such as contemplation, lateral
thinking, free associations, metaphor, illustration, the limit between
figurative and abstract, the private, the cognitive value of painting,
the connection with the subject, illusions, and the expression of
subjectivity.


Practice-based sections will be corroborated by theoretical material and
exhibition catalogues that aim to inform a visual culture tailored on
individual students’ needs, interests and inclinations.


The course aims to develop students’ awareness with regard to the choice
of subject matter, to developing one’s own pictorial inclination, and
to spatial issues in terms of installation and relations between works.


Fundamental to the course is dialogue between the students, peer
exchange and discussion. A minimum of three hours a week of work outside
of class time is required. Students will have to buy some materials not
provided by JCU: the course fee for expected material expenditure is
75€.


LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Demonstrate a verbal
understanding of fundamental traditions and problems in painting and
apply this with growing skill in representing form within space.


Demonstrate a growing ability to apply color theory, use tone and compositional strategies within your work. 


Demonstrate an ability within your work  to analyse the interdependency between form and content within paintings.


Demonstrate an ability to critically reflect upon your own work and that of others via group critiques and  visits to museums and galleries.