Curriculum


First Year, Intro to Drawing - 36 weeks
  1. Basic Anatomy and Figure Drawing 1,2,3
  2. Drawing Foundations 1,2,3
  3. Cast Drawing 1,2,3

The first year heavily emphasizes drawing. By the end of their first year, students will have completed 36 weeks of introduction to realism with emphasis on mastering drawing using pencil, charcoal, Conté, pen and ink, and appropriate papers. They will have a thorough foundation in anatomy, cast drawing, and figure drawing, with emphasis on use of line, value and texture. Accuracy in drawing,  perspective and use of value to delineate objects an figure will be stressed. In order to progress to painting, a demonstrated understanding of all aspects of drawing is necessary. Students are expected to attend each class session, one night drawing session per week, and to take advantage of open studio time. Proper presentation of material will be expected and portfolio reviews required before advancement to the next level. Regardless of a student's age, a level of maturity is needed to get through this rigorous course of study.

Second Year, Intro to Painting - 36 weeks

  1. Artistic Anatomy and Figure Drawing
  2. Landscape Drawing and Painting
  3. Still Life Drawing and Painting
  4. Portraiture 1,2,3
  5. Integrating Drawing and Painting

The second year student has built a solid foundation in drawing through their first year. During this second year, the artist continues to refine draughting techniques as well as utilizes all knowledge of materials to begin to make finished drawings and pictures. The student will move into more advanced drawing and beginning painting of portrait, still life and landscape. A student in their second year will also find their own way toward their intended style of work. by the end of their second year, artists will have a thorough understanding of the foundations of drawing as the basis for painting, a mastery of grisaille and an ability to render objects, figure and portrait with accuracy. All students will have acquired skills in preparation of grounds, mediums, and paint making.

Third Year, Advanced Drawing and Painting - 36 weeks

  1. Advanced Artistic Anatomy
  2. Landscape Painting: Advanced Open Air Painting
  3. Advanced Still Life Painting

The third year artist is a leader at the League, exhibiting the knowledge, work ethic, and skill of a professional artist. In the classroom, he or she is an aid to the instructor and able to help someone beginning at the League. The spirit of the master-apprentice system is passed along through the work of the third year artist.

By the end of year three, students will have a thorough working knowledge of materials, a well demonstrated drawing ability, and a strong start in oil painting. They should have a good sense of their are of concentration as a professional working artist. At this point they will have completed the core program at the Fine Arts League of the Carolinas.

Inherent in all three years of study at The Fine Arts League of the Carolinas, is the study of Anatomy, craftsmanship, color theory, perspective, composition, materials, and other necessary elements of a the professional artist. We wish to offer a full education devoted to the development of a classical fine artist, so that the serious student will leave after three years with a solid foundation in drawing, anatomy, and craftsmanship, and with the confidence of a professional artist to pursue his or her talent.

Fourth Year, Additional Study - 48 weeks

  1. Independent Study Program
  2. Apprentice Program

All graduating artist may apply for consideration in the Independent Study Program or the Apprentice Program. This advanced study involves a close working relationship with a master artist. Acceptance into a Fourth Year Program is limited and subject to the Master Artist's approval.

Current Schedule

  • Fall 2007: September 17 - December 14
  • Winter 2008: January 14 - April 4
  • Spring 2008: April 12 - July 11
  • Summer Intensive Programs - To Be Announced
  • Fall 2008; September 15 - December 12
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