Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - CA 263 D100

Methods and Concepts: Painting-based Practices (3)

Class Number: 4257

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    DT VSAR

  • Instructor:

    Sessional

  • Prerequisites:

    CA 160. A course materials fee is required.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A studio course introducing painting practices as they relate to practical, conceptual, aesthetic and historical issues in contemporary art.

COURSE DETAILS:

This session offers each student an opportunity to explore and develop their skills through applied involvement with the tools, techniques and the material vocabulary of painting while regarding something of the historical weight of the discipline and the conceptual vigilance required to produce meaningful paintings in the context of the contemporary art world.
Essentially, the course will be guided by studio work and projects involving practical considerations of hardware and handiwork, and studies from life, still life and plein air painting, as well more or less self-directed explorations within a given conceptual framework. The common emphasis is upon broadening the usual understanding of painting to regard the more ambitious and diverse practice of art and life in general. 
Regular and punctual attendance is essential, and students are expected to work intensively in every class. Students are advised that their grades are based not only on their final folio but, as well, on their initiative and engagement in problem solving, a thorough working of ideas, individual development and a contribution to class and critiques.

It should be noted that individuals with allergies or sensitivities to paint, solvent, mineral or synthetic substances should probably not take this course

Grading

  • Studio Projects 50%
  • Studio Folio 35%
  • Participation 15%

REQUIREMENTS:

There is a materials fee for this course but it won’t cover everything. Students are expected to supply their own basic tools tools like pencils, erasers, oil painting canvas “paper” pads, brushes and some paints. We will discuss this in more detail on the first class.

Materials

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.