Foundations

At the University of Colorado at Boulder, the Foundations Arts Program introduces studio undergraduates to a cohesive curriculum offered through a sequence of first-year courses. The focus of this curriculum is on visual literacy and understanding the use of technique as a tool to illustrate concepts that span many different art disciplines and cultures. This program includes two core courses designed for the student to progressively build upon their existing aptitudes and to be introduced to new ways of working and thinking. Foundation Faculty carefully guide students through a comprehensive program, providing students with a thorough understanding of contemporary art and art practice to ensure a successful creative future.

Students develop creative, expressive, and analytical skills through a variety of multidisciplinary assignments, including digital media. Each course consists of studio practice and the Visiting Artist lecture series. The first Foundations Arts course ARTS 1010 focuses on introducing the students to two and three-dimensional design practices with exploration in color theory. ARTS 1020 is designed to introduce the students to a more complex and conceptual approaches to projects with attention to Digital Arts. These courses introduce a range of theoretical positions, artistic methods, materials, and media that are key to art making.

Foundations Area FAQs

What are the first Foundations classes I will need to enroll in?

ARTS 1010 Introduction to Studio Arts: This course is composed of six areas, beginning with composition, and is followed by drawing and color theory integrated with 2-D Design concepts in progressive exercises and projects using a wide range of materials. A 3-D design project that places the students in the woodshop to learn basic wood fabrication while exploring the fundamental principles of three-dimensional practices with the application of a variety of materials. There is also a digital component where students learn and utilize basic image editing in Photoshop. The last studio component is an Independent Project, where the student focuses on forming their artistic voice and practice.

How is the second Foundation Class different from ARTS 1010?

ARTS 1020 Introduction to Studio Arts II builds on what the student has learned in ARTS 1010 through more advanced projects. The complexity and scale of assignments are pushed to develop additional skills and deepen artistic inquiry as well as to allow students greater freedom and responsibility in their approach to art practice. It challenges the student to produce projects that are based on current issues, a range of media, and a variety of the studio art programs.

Can I enroll in both ARTS 1010 and ARTS 1020 at the same time?

No, ARTS 1010 is a prerequisite for ARTS 1020, so students are required to take ARTS 1010 first.

What is the Visiting Artist Lecture Series?

The Visiting Artist lecture series is a schedule of lectures presented by Visiting Artists throughout each semester for the whole Art and Art History Department. Every Foundations student is expected to attend a certain number of lectures each semester for class credit.

If I transfer into CU can I be exempt from taking the Foundations courses?

You will need a copy of the syllabus of each course you want to review and a copy of your transcript so the Director can note that you have passed the course. Work with your advisor to contact the Director of the Foundations Arts Program.