ARTS 113 Introduction to 2D Design

An introduction to visual thinking as well as the elements and principles of design. Concentration on the elements of design through production of artwork using a variety of materials and methods. Emphasis placed on understanding the elements and principles of design and how they integrate to form fully realized works of art. Students will explore composition and selection of subject matter.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Course Guide

View this course’s outcomes, policies, schedule, and more.*

*The information contained in our Course Guides is provided as a sample. Specific course curriculum and requirements for each course are provided by individual instructors each semester. Students should not use Course Guides to find and complete assignments, class prerequisites, or order books.


Design is a visual language and a process of visual problem solving. The elements and principles of design are the building blocks used by all artists/designers to create aesthetically pleasing work. Design professionals must cultivate their ability to use these elements and principles in order to reach their creative goals and to explore the many directions an art piece can take. Any discipline that relies upon visual design and aesthetics can benefit from this course.


Textbook readings and lecture presentations

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (2)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to post an original image followed by a response to the provided prompt for each discussion. Each thread must be at least 150 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ posts. Each reply must be at least 100 words.

Project: Emphasis and Focal Point Assignment

The student will collect 1 example of each of the 3 types of focal point/emphasis from magazines and describe how each example clearly demonstrates the specified method of creating emphasis.

Project: Balance Assignment

The student will create an original thematic set of compositions in which each piece demonstrates 1 of the 4 types of balance.

Project: Line Assignment

The student will create an original set of 4 nonobjective compositions in which each piece explores line as an emotive tool.

Project: Pattern and Texture Assignment

The student will compare pattern and texture by creating a set of 2 original compositions that juxtaposes the 2 elements.

Project: Illusion of Space Assignment

The student will create a set of 4 original compositions that tells a story or follows a narrative. Each composition must clearly demonstrate 1 of the ways of creating the illusion of space/depth.

Project: Value and Color Assignment

The student will create a value scale with 9 unique steps of value, a basic color wheel, and a study of tints and shades.

Project: Final Portfolio Assignment

The final portfolio will contain the 5 original design projects completed during the course (Line, Balance, Pattern and Texture, Space, and Value and Color).

Quizzes (7)

Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the Module: Week in which it is assigned. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes, contain multiple-choice questions, and have a 20–minute time limit.


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