Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - CA 161 D100

Introductory Studio in Visual Art II (3)

Class Number: 6427

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Instructor:

    Raymond Boisjoly
    cboisjol@sfu.ca
    Office Hours: by appointment

  • Prerequisites:

    CA (or FPA) 160.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A continuation of the work begun in CA (or FPA) 160, with emphasis on particular problems in the visual arts worked through a series of projects, culminating in the Campus Project, a site-specific public work designed, built and installed at the end of the term. Some research is required. A course materials fee is required. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Students with credit for FPA 161 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Students will build upon creative processes introduced in CA 160 and consider the role "site" plays in our understanding of the function of works of art. Through a focused series of readings, screenings, artistic exercises and presentations, students will conceive of a work that demonstrates an insight concerning the space of an SFU campus location. Previously, this campus project has looked to the Burnaby campus, Goldcorp Centre for the Arts and Harbor Centre. 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The goals for this course are numerous and varied.
- ability to produce insights from observations of a given physical location in terms of its histories, materials and uses.
- skills in project planning and realization from sketches and notes to public presentation.
- increased student ability to discuss their own work and that of their peers in relation to a growing familiarity with the discourse of contemporary art.
- ability to assess the needs of a project in relation to the site(s) under consideration.

Grading

  • projects/exercises 60%
  • presentations 10%
  • sketchbook/research 10%
  • preparedness 10%
  • work ethic 10%

NOTES:

Projects and exercises will be introduced on a regular basis and are to be worked on in class and outside of class as needed. Students are expected to understand what materials and tools will be needed in order to complete assignments. If these materials and tools are not available in the class, they will be expected to procure these items themselves.

Presentations will be given two times through the semester. The first assignment will concern an artist that works in a way that engages with either artistic or non artistic sites or contexts. The second presentation will be on a public artwork within the city of Vancouver. Students will be expected to introduce the key points of information required for the class to understand the work being presented. These assignments will require research done in the library or online.

Students will use a sketchbook to document their research process throughout the year. This sketchbook will contain their notes and drawings planning their approach to both projects and presentations. It is expected that this sketchbook will accompany them at all times in class and will regularly be with them outside of class. It will be assessed at the end of semester and contribute substantially to their final grade.

Preparedness is key to success within this course. Students will be expected to come prepared with the necessary knowledge and materials to work in a productive manner for each and every class. If there is something unknown or or confusing about processes or steps toward the completion of a project, it will be necessary to talk it through with your instructor to get on track to complete assigned work.

Work ethic is a crucial factor in assessing student success. This involves the ability to be proactive in completing work as well as maintaining a clean and safe work environment for yourself and others. This will also encompass student contributions to creating a friendly and convivial studio environment. Understanding what others are doing and engaging them in a discussion of their process will contribute to a positive and beneficial work ethic.

REQUIREMENTS:

Students are expected to communicate with me should any issue arise that results in arriving late or being absent. 
Students will be expected to have work completed to discuss the progress of each project in every class. Any work missed must be made up outside of class time.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

While we have a number of materials available to you, it is suggested that you acquire the tools necessary to maintain a general studio practice. This includes, but is not limited to, scissors, a metal straight edge, a sturdy utility blade, various tapes and glues, pencils, etc.

Each student is required to use their sketchbook to track their work and progress over the semester. Any work related to class projects should be recorded in the sketchbook.

REQUIRED READING:

We will read two texts together as a class, these will be posted to the course Canvas page.

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

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

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.