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Basic Drawing and Beyond

OAK Campus
EXDRW-1500-01
Instructor: Sheila Metcalf-Tobin
Mon. & Wed., 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 3-July 8 (no class 7/3)
10 sessions. $335. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
This course is for anyone who wants to work on the basics of drawing, from beginners to those who want to get back to drawing with a renewed vision. Through still life, the model, and architecture, participants develop their ability to see and then translate that visual experience into drawing.

The course focuses on how to use form, space, and proportions to create a strong composition. The class also discusses how to stay inspired to draw outside the classroom.
Bring to first class: 20” x 26” drawing board with clips, 18" x 24" Strathmore drawing pad (other brand fine but paper must be drawing quality), soft vine charcoal, compressed charcoal (Char-kole brand), white plastic eraser.

Dynamic Figure Drawing for Fine Arts & Animation

OAK Campus
EXDRW-1511-01
Instructor: Mel Adamson
Tues. & Thurs., 6:45-9:45 p.m., June 4-27
8 sessions. $270; $20 lab fee payable at registration. Noncredit. Prerequisite: one previous drawing class or equivalent experience
This course blends figure-drawing techniques from the great masters with contemporary methods of problem solving. Paying consistent attention to line sensitivity, participants hone their skills in drawing the human form with an emphasis on both gesture and structural accuracy.

Students learn to respond directly to the movement, weight, mass, gesture, and character of each pose, while developing the skill of conceptualizing the human figure as a series of connected geometric forms. They gain the ability to measure dimensions and align various parts of the body by incorporating intuitive with mechanical methods. The class explores the dramatic effects of chiaroscuro and analyzes the planes and surface contours of the figure by using the sense of touch as well as sight. By the end, students should be able to balance their attention between gesture, core, and surface volumes, investing their figures with accuracy and character.
Bring to first class: Biggie Sketch or Canson Sketch pad (50 lb), 1 stick medium size vine charcoal, 1-2 sticks willow charcoal - thin, 1 kneaded eraser, 1 chamois, artist tape 1/4" or 1/2", drawing board, 2 charcoal pencil, soft or 2B and 4B or 6B.

Painting: Abstraction

SF Campus
EXPNT-1500-01
Instructor: Patrick Dintino
Mon. & Wed., 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 3-July 8 (no class 7/3)
10 sessions. $335. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
Abstract painting has been with us for over a century. Where do we go from here? This course explores the challenge of creating truly original abstract work as it relates to current times. The development of a unique approach is emphasized while the creation of a process for experimentation is intensified. Both source material and internal inspirations are used. Practical information for presentation is provided as well as strategies on navigating through the art world. Confidence building and critical analysis included. No prerequisite necessary except a desire to create abstractions.
Bring to first class: two preprimed canvas boards 18" x 24", acrylic or oil paints (black, white, yellow, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, alizarin crimson and cadmium red), palette knife, palette paper, several brush sizes, a few jars, rags; if working in oils, bring odorless mineral spirits and linseed oil.

Painting: Your Body of Work

SF Campus
EXPNT-1500-02
Instructor: Patrick Dintino
Mon. & Wed., 6:30-9:30 p.m., July 15-August 14
10 sessions. $335. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
This course is designed to help painters develop their voice through a body of work, focusing on expanding their unique process, while discussing the implications of creating significant artwork in contemporary society. The class emphasizes the use of practical tools for establishing your aesthetic and demystifies the intricacies of operating in the art world. The course includes exercises for continuing a committed painting practice, as well as enhancing your ability to speak eloquently about your art. No prerequisite necessary except a desire to create.
Bring to first class: two preprimed canvas boards 18" x 24", acrylic or oil paints (black, white, yellow, ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, alizarin crimson and cadmium red), palette knife, palette paper, several brush sizes, a few jars, rags; if working in oils, bring odorless mineral spirits and linseed oil.

The Series

SF Campus
EXPNT-1506-01
Instructor: Mel Prest
Tues. & Thurs., 6:45-9:45 p.m., July 16-August 15
10 sessions. $335. Noncredit. Prerequisite: Introduction to Painting or equivalent experience
Many artists choose to work in a series to hone and explore an idea beyond its initial glimmer. The Series focuses on painting a chosen subject again and again to create a body of work. In the first session, students choose a subject (self-portrait, still life, photographs, landscape, etc.) that will be their topic for the semester. Participants are encouraged to keep a painting journal to help document the growth of their ideas, which allows them to see each painting as a step in the creative process.

Each session includes studio time for painting and may also include critique, slide viewing, writing, a field trip, or time with a visiting artist. The goal of the class is to see works not only as individual paintings but also as part of a larger creative practice.
Bring to first class: sketchbook, writing/drawing tools, your own painting materials, ideas and sources for subject matter.

Exploring Watercolor

SF Campus
EXPNT-1400-01
Instructor: Lynn Sondag
Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m., July 27 & August 3
2 sessions. $140. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
This course is designed for individuals who are new to watercolor or those who have some experience and would like to further develop their skills. In addition to learning basic applications, participants work with specialized techniques and more experimental approaches such as resist, wet into wet, and dry brush. Students work from a wide range of subject matter including still life, model, and abstraction.
Bring to first class: one sheet of 140-lb. paper (hot or cold press), small watercolor tubes (ultramarine, cerulean blue, cadmium red medium, permanent rose, cadmium yellow medium, lemon yellow, viridian, burnt sienna, and ivory black), #6 and #12 “round” brushes, 3H pencil.

Color Theory for Fine Artists and Designers

OAK Campus
EXGRP-1400-01
Instructor: Sian Oblak
Mon., 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 17-August 12
9 sessions. $300. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
Color is a versatile tool for creating depth, evoking emotion, telling a story. In this studio-based class, artists and designers of all stripes discover how to unlock its magic. Using straightforward design projects, students explore color harmony (dyads, triads, tetrads, split compliments, value-based harmony etc.), investigate color effects by comparing and contrasting different color combinations, and discuss color and its narrative use. By focusing on color mixing with paint (and paper), the class learns how successful color use is always based on context.
Please bring to first class: pad of 11" x 14" smooth finish Bristol paper, paint brushes suitable for detailed work (such as Blick Scholastic Wonder White Round #0 or #1 and Blick Scholastic Fitch Bright #6), 2B pencil and eraser, tubes of acrylic paint in the following colors: mars black, cadmium yellow medium or hansa yellow medium, primary cobalt blue or equivalent (please do not get pthalocyanine blue), cadmium red medium, cadmium red deep, large tube of titanium white.

Studio Photography Workshop

OAK Campus
EXPHO-1200-02
Instructor: Douglas Sandberg
Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., August 10 & 11
2 sessions. $140. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
Photographing in a studio allows you to control and manipulate light and perspective in ways that create arresting imagery. In this lively workshop students view examples of extraordinary lighting then learn how to achieve the same effect in simple and cost-effective ways.

Hands-on demonstrations cover photographing people and objects, film and digital photography, and studio gear options and backgrounds. Results are seen instantaneously in studio digital capture. Students leave with a basic knowledge of studio equipment and studio lighting techniques, as well as information on how to set up a home studio.
Equipment and cameras will be provided for the demonstrations, but students may also bring in equipment they have questions about. Bring a USB device to capture images done in class. For the second day, bring an object that you would like to photograph in a studio lighting situation.

Photographing Your Artwork

OAK Campus
EXPHO-1200-01
Instructor: Douglas Sandberg
Sat., 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., June 15
1 session. $85. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
Photographing in a studio allows you to control and manipulate light and perspective in ways that create arresting imagery. In this lively workshop students view examples of extraordinary lighting then learn how to achieve the same effect in simple and cost-effective ways.

Hands-on demonstrations cover photographing people and objects, film and digital photography, and studio gear options and backgrounds. Results are seen instantaneously in studio digital capture. Students leave with a basic knowledge of studio equipment and studio lighting techniques, as well as information on how to set up a home studio.
Equipment and cameras will be provided for the demonstrations, but students may also bring in equipment they have questions about. Bring a USB device to capture images done in class. For the second day, bring an object that you would like to photograph in a studio lighting situation.

Intro to Jewelry Design

OAK Campus
EXMTL-1500-01
Instructor: Marshall Dalva
Tues., 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 4-August 6
10 sessions. $335; $25 lab fee payable at registration; $35 materials fee payable to instructor at first session. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
This course explores basic metalsmithing and jewelry processes. Participants are introduced to various techniques for cutting metal, methods of joinery, soldering, forming, fabrication, and various means of surface treatment.

Students may work with copper, brass, or sterling silver as they create jewelry or other small forms.
Tool kit deposit: each student is required to submit a check in the amount of $140, payable to CCA, at the first session. Checks will be returned to students on the last day of class upon the return of tool kits. . Materials fee covers some copper, silver, and additional supplies.

Download the materials list for Intro to Jewelry Design.

Alchemy: A Casting Intensive

OAK Campus
EXSCU-1300-01
Instructor: John Poole
Sat. & Sun., 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., July 20-21
2 sessions. $195; $40 lab fee payable at registration0. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
In this rigorous introduction to a wide variety of moldmaking and casting methods, participants receive instruction in quick-setting, detail-capturing silicone and latex rubber molds, plaster-piece molds, alginate molds, and moldmaking directly from the body, along with an overview of casting methods for materials such as wax, plaster, paper, latex, soap, and clay. Participants may choose to generate their own sculptures through experimentation with these materials and processes or they may bring pre-existing sculptures or found objects to transform into new materials. The emphasis of this class is on creating samples and learning a variety of new techniques, not on completing a finished product.
Lab fee covers some rubber, plaster, cement, plastic, wax, and other miscellaneous supplies.

Metal Casting

OAK Campus
EXSCU-1500-01
Instructor: John Poole
Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., July 22-26
5 sessions. $350; $80 lab fee payable at registration0. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
This course explores the process of casting. While focusing on traditional bronze/aluminum casting using the investment and sand processes, students also investigate nontraditional methods and materials. Participants learn direct working of wax and mold making (plaster and rubber), as well as metalworking techniques (TIG welding and chasing) through the final patination of finished metal pieces. This course is ideal for people interested in casting for the first time as well as those who are more experienced.
Materials fee covers wax, plaster, and sand. Cost of bronze/aluminum extra.

Handbuilding with Clay

OAK Campus
EXCER-1502-01
Instructor: Mary Alison Lucas
Tues. & Thurs., 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 11-July 18 (no class 7/2-4)
10 sessions. $335. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
Handbuilding is versatile, fun, and easy. Handbuilt pieces can be sculptural, functional, or both at the same time. In this studio, participants can create functional or sculptural ceramic pieces for their own home or as unique handmade gifts. Each class begins with a demonstration of simple handbuilding techniques. Students may choose to make the daily projects assigned by the instructor or work on their own ideas and inspirations. Daily projects range from dinnerware to vases, birdhouses, and more. The class also explores surface decoration techniques such as glazing, stencils and stamps, sgraffito, and other methods of applying texture. At the end of the class, each student should have a number of useful and decorative objects for the home. Students will have access to the ceramics studio outside of class time.

Bring to first class:beginning students will be provided with tools the first day of class and will be given a list of tools to buy for the second class (approximate cost: $5). Experienced students should come prepared with their preferred tools. Clay may be purchased from CCA's Ceramics department for $10/bag. Students should bring a checkbook to class in order to purchase clay. Students are also encouraged to bring any inspiring images and object ideas to the first class if they would like.

Wheel Throwing: Above and Beyond the Mug

OAK Campus
EXCER-1503-01
Instructor: Craig Petey
Tues. & Thurs., 6:30-9:30 p.m., May 21-June 27
12 sessions. $335; $15 lab fee payable at registration. Noncredit. Prerequisite: Introductory wheel throwing class(es)
Enrollment limit: 8 students; one student per electric pottery wheel. Students will have at least sixteen hours of access to the ceramics studio outside of class time, exact times to be determined during the first week of class.

This course is designed for intermediate/advanced students who wish to deepen their understanding of ceramics and develop their own voice and approach. Students should already be able to reliably craft bowls, cups, mugs, etc.

Participants explore a variety of forms, crafting bowls, cups, plates, platters, vases, bottles, and lidded jars. The course also addresses other aspects of advanced ceramics which include loading electric and gas kilns; firing a gas kiln; exploring clay/ceramic theories; and learning about glaze eutectic points, carbon trapping shino, and reduction: what it is and why we do it.

Lectures on the history of American ceramics, well known potters, where they live, and how they are tied to a lineage, are also presented.

Meeting for a total of 12 sessions, the class has a built-in review/work day with either the instructor or teaching assistant present to answer any questions. The last day is for picking up your work and cleaning out your cubby.

Lab fee covers materials for making ceramic glazes. Bring to first class: preferred set of tools or basic wheel throwing tool kit. Clay can be purchased from CCA's Ceramics department at $10/bag (payments must be made by check).

Structure & Image: Computerized Weaving

OAK Campus
EXTEX-1502-01
Instructor: Stacy Speyer
Fri., Sat., Sun. / Mon. & Wed., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. / 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 7-19
10 sessions. $800; $20 lab fee payable at registration. Noncredit (may be taken for one credit and a letter grade, please inquire).
Prerequisite: All students must have a basic knowledge of Photoshop and experience working on Apple computers.
This intensive course explores how the myriad of patterns possible on a computer-controlled loom can transform drawings, photographic imagery, and text into the structure of a piece of fabric. The first week of the workshop will introduce students to Pointcarré Computer Jacquard Weaving software, how to import images from Photoshop, and weave samples on the TC-1 computerized jacquard loom. During the second week, each class will begin with instruction followed by open studio, allowing each student time to weave. We will also discuss the history of Jacquard fabrics and look at contemporary works created with computerized Jacquard.

This course is limited to eight students: one student per computer. Bring to first class: paper and pen to take notes with and a USB stick to save files developed in the class.

Animation: Character Design & the Storytelling Pose

OAK Campus
EXMED-1503-01
Instructor: Ed Gutierrez
Thurs., 6:30-9:30 p.m., June 6-August 15 (no class 7/4 & 7/18)
9 sessions. $315. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
At the heart of every storytelling pose is a strong gesture that captures a character’s thought, emotion, and feelings. These gestures are the crucial elements for successful animation posing and storyboarding (or even children’s story book illustrations). This class focuses on the elements of design, staging, composition, and color to achieve that telling pose.
Assignments include designing humans, animals, and objects as animatable characters. Instructor demonstrations emphasize the importance of the gesture, body attitude, dynamics of forces, and animation principles to create appealing and animated characters. Observation drawing and physical research is a key part of the class. The use of thumbnail sketching is emphasized for the purpose of exploring various concepts or ideas before coming to any final designs or poses. Through these assignments, students begin to develop a portfolio of work that illustrates their process from concept to final design, while exploring a variety of styles and mediums, both traditional and digital.
Bring to first class: a small sketchbook for observation sketching and taking notes on the first class, 4 to 8GB flash drive to save and back up assignments. A more detailed materials list will be given out at the first class.

Animation: Intro to 2D and 3D Production

OAK Campus
EXMED-1501-01
Instructor: Ed Gutierrez
Sat., 10a.m.-4p.m., June 22-August 3 (no class July 6)
6 sessions. $350. Noncredit. Prerequisite: none
This course will focus on creating an animated short film following production pipeline procedures and animation principles. Students will design and animate their own concepts. Two short animation assignments will introduce students to animation principles and software that will be used to film and edit these short films. A variety of 2d and 3D animated short films will be reviewed and analyzed in class. Animations can be done in traditional 2D methods or 3D. Instructor demonstrations will emphasize story and personality driven animation. The use of sound and color will also be introduced in the class.
Bring to first class: a sketchbook no larger than 9" x 12", pen, B or 2B pencil, and a 2-4GB flash drive to save assignments. A more detailed materials list will be given out at the first class meeting.