Assessment in Foundations

Studies for the BFA degree at Tyler begin with a common freshman experience, the Foundation Year. During this year, students are enrolled in studio courses in Drawing, 2-D and 3-D Principles, and Foundation Computer. The Foundation Program is highly structured and intensive. It forms the fundamental basis for studio practice, critical thinking, and the understanding and implementation of principles of visual art expression.

The program emphasizes creative and critical thinking, problem solving, visual thinking, perception and observation, as well as presenting traditional vocabulary, theory, media, and techniques of artistic practice. The Foundation Faculty is comprised of faculty from all major programs in the School, providing freshmen with a broad perspective and diverse points of view from which to build their experience as artists.

Key Learning Outcomes

  • An expanded range of mark making
  • An understanding of the significance of material choices
  • The use of a narrative in drawing
  • An understanding of both perceptual and subjective color in drawing.
  • The ability to experiment with and use materials to their full potential
  • The depth of their observational skills
  • The ability to measure and find proportion using hand and eye coordination
  • The ability to create a fully realized drawing
  • The ability to reflect, think and use time In concert with their hands and eyes In drawing
  • The ability to use color formally and conceptually within drawing
  • Verbal and critical skills when looking at and discussing drawing
  • The ability to re-discover the world around them and use their chosen subject to it's fullest potential
  • A rapport with certain materials, tools, and processes fundamental to the understanding of 2D form and space
  • An understanding of the relationship of form to content
  • A vocabulary based in the fundamental principles of two-dimensional form and space
  • An understanding of criticism as an essential component of artistic development
  • A strong sense of craft and the ability to execute well-crafted work
  • A rapport with certain materials, tools, and processes fundamental to the understanding of 3D form and space
  • An understanding of the role of materiality and tactility in visual experience
  • A vocabulary based in the fundamental principles of form and space
  • A strong sense of craft and the ability to execute well-crafted work
  • Facility thinking and working with the elements and principles of art/design
  • Strong work habits and safe studio practice