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Art & Art History
University of Mississippi

Art 101: Two-Dimensional Design

Art 101 is a preparatory class that is designed to help the student develop the necessary skills to move forward in more advanced course work and adjust to a studio class environment. In this foundation course, the student are introduced to the basic elements and organizing principles of design as well as a variety of problem-solving strategies, with an emphasis on principal elements of two- dimensional design through assigned problems using cut paper. Classroom hours are divided between lectures, demonstrations, in-class projects, critiques of projects, and classroom discussions.  

Topics covered include the design process and critical thinking, unity and focal point, scale/proportion, balance, rhythm, line, shape, volume, value, color usage in design, pattern, and texture.

After the successful completion of this course, students should understand how to

  • manipulate and construct cut paper designs;
  • use the elements and principles of design in;
  • look objectively and critically at art and design using a formal vocabulary;
  • work in a studio environment in preparation for future coursework;
  • make informed decisions to solve creative problems by applying evaluative standards;
  • locate, organize, store, retrieve, evaluate, and synthesize information from multiple sources.

“Mr. Brinlee is a very caring teacher.  He really cares about the artistic growth of his students. I love the way he introduces each project; he is very helpful with his direction for the class and was eager to help us reach better potential.  He is very kind and cares about his students.”

“Josh is incredible. He is super-encouraging and offers lots of ideas to help you but never tells you what to do. He lets you have artist’s choice a lot, but he is always willing to give feedback and constructive critiquing. He is very personable and I learned many art terms that I may use in the future.”

“This is a good way to start brainstorming and coming up with ideas under a time pressure. Brooke was easy to talk to and spent time with each student to help them.  She was helpful, kind, and informative.”