Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - CA 160 D200

Introductory Studio in Visual Art I (3)

Class Number: 6197

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A hands-on studio course modeled on the progressive development of artistic practice from simple mark-making to full scale installation. Through a process of continuous transformation, an original idea is developed in a sequence of methods, materials and scales. Some research is required. A course materials fee is required.

COURSE DETAILS:

CA 160 is a unique visual art course where grades are calculated after all the projects in the course have been completed at the end of the semester. This approach emphasizes the studio process as an important element in the production of art. In other words, this class focuses on the evolution of projects, rather than merely the outcome. Each project is the basis for the next project, and thus projects become steps or increments in a whole studio approach, leading to the end of the semester.

Thus evaluation for this course is not on a project-by-project basis, but is based on an accumulation of each student’s work, as well as each student’s approach to working. Although students will only be assigned an official grade at the end of the semester, there will be midterm one-on-one meetings to discuss progress. The instructor will inform students if they are perceived as not meeting the expectations of this course.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

• Growth and development over the course of the semester
• Resourcefulness (thoughtful and inventive problem solving)
• Tenacity (especially the ability to pull oneself out of a place of disappointment with a stage in the process and move on to a place of interest)
• Collaborative skills (using the classroom as a community of peers as part of problem solving and knowledge development
• Ability to keep up with projects by working outside of class when necessary.
• Timely completion of studio project and other assignments
• Proper handling of studio tools, equipment

Grading

  • exercises 30%
  • sketchbook 20%
  • participation 20%
  • preparedness 10%
  • gallery report 10%
  • collaborative sculpture 10%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students will be expected to acquire general tools for use in the studio. There are a few tools on hand for use but they are limited. A full list of tools to acquire will be presented in the first class.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.