OVERVIEW

This class is focused on concept and communication. Matters of execution will be discussed in conjunction with the idea behind them, and every assignment will explore various ways of communicating these ideas in visual form.

Conceptual illustration is not merely a puzzle or a message that needs to be conveyed in drawn form—it can pose questions, confuse and intrigue viewers, or even contradict its purpose. From metaphors to subtler forms of expression, the concept must always come before the execution, and the execution must take the concept to its clearest expression.

Each assignment will take up 3 sessions: first for thumbnails and ideas, second for sketches and work-in-progress, third for finals critiques.

The exception is the final assignment that will take slightly longer and has to be developed over the course of the semester.

ATTENDANCE

All deadlines must be met. Any missed deadline will result in failure.

If there are circumstances that prevent you from turning in work on time, make sure you notify me as early as possible. Likewise, if you have to miss a class, notify me in advance and attach your homework.

Bad attendance will affect your grade. Three missed classes will result in failure.

If you are late, join the class quietly without announcing your excuses.

ETIQUETTE

During workshop sessions, please be respectful of the shared space—conversations are permitted, as long as the volume is kept reasonably low. You don’t need to raise your hand to voice an opinion, however, please avoid interrupting and allow others to speak.

If you need to make a phone call or attend to private matters, leave the class and return quietly without disrupting the flow. Eating and drinking is permitted, preferably during a break.

ELECTRONICS

You may use your phones and devices for research and translation only. Please check your social networks during breaks.

All devices must be set on silent. Checking your phone during lectures and critiques is not allowed and will be treated as bad attendance.

CRITIQUE

In most cases illustration is a collaboration between the artist and the art director/client, and the critiques in this class will be approached from both artistic and professional positions.

The classroom setting is a rare opportunity to see how other artists would approach the same assignment—you won’t have access to that in professional practice. Offering and receiving honest criticism will help you understand your taste and style.