Visual & Applied Arts | Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Graphics Courses

ARTG 100 (3) Visual Design Primer

A sampler to introduce students to the elements and principles of design, composition, aesthetics, colour, type, layout and design history. Of interest to students preparing portfolios for admission to Graphics, Interior Design, or Visual Arts programs, ITAS students, international students, or the general public. Supplies purchase required. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C" in English 12. Some artistic ability and a genuine interest in art and design recommended.

ARTG 110 (3) Theory I: Design Process

A focus on the design process to assist creative development in Graphics program students. Topics include computer fundamentals, time and idea management, and creative thinking skills. ARTG 110 was formerly called ARTG 125T, ARTG 125; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

Co-requisites: ENGL 115 and ARTG 111; or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 111 (3) Design History

A historical survey of art and design history from prehistoric to post-modern. A study of the historical chronology and styles of art, architecture, design, and graphic design in context with lectures, projects, and historical applications of graphic design. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

Co-requisites: ENGL 115 and ARTG 110; or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 120 (3) Graphic Design Principles

A study of two-dimensional graphic design concepts, emphasizing the principles and elements of applied design, and the conception, visual interpretation, and expression of ideas. ARTG 120 was formerly called ARTG 122T, ARTG 122; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 121 (3) Colour Theory

An introduction to the physical properties, psychological effects, language, and theories of colour. Students will explore how colour works through the application of various colour media. Provides the necessary foundation for illustration and graphic design courses. ARTG 121 was formerly called ARTG 119; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 124 (3) Computer Imagery I

A hands-on introduction to the Mac OS and to Vector software. Topics include drawing, colour, tracing, transformations, type, patterns, symbols, layers, file management, trouble-shooting, and the creation of imagery for graphic design projects and practical exercises. ARTG 124 was formerly called ARTG 236; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to Applied Graphics program.

ARTG 130 (3) Page Layout Software

A study of the principles of page layout design and digital document construction utilizing traditional and contemporary design processes and current page layout applications. Students will design and create a variety of document structures exploring digital design principles through thumbnails, roughs, comps, to final pre-press file construction. (1:1:1)

Prerequisite: Permission of the department.

ARTG 140 (3) Illustration I

An investigation of the drawing process. Begins with line drawing following through to more complex knowledge, skills, and mediums. Emphasis on concept development and expression and all design elements involved in effective composition are included, as are diagrammatic, one, and two point perspective imaging techniques. ARTG 140 was formerly called ARTG 140T, ARTG 240T, ARTG 240; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 150 (3) Typography I

An introduction to the role of typography in graphic design. Topics such as fonts, measurements, systems, kerning, readability, hierarchy, communication, and expression will be explored in lectures, projects, and exercises. ARTG 150 was formerly called ARTG 215; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 160 (3) Design Photography I

An introduction to the fundamental, technical, and aesthetic considerations involved in producing photographic images and prints, with emphases on digital camera operation, image capture, and acquisition. The basics of file management, image editing, digital output, and lighting techniques will be explored. ARTG 160 was formerly called ARTG 164; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Admission to the B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 237 (3) Computer Imagery II

An exploration of creation and manipulation of digital imagery and design using digital imaging software. Students will, through in-class tasks and out-of-class projects, complete a portfolio that demonstrates their knowledge of software techniques studied and their application to creative conceptual imagery. ARTG 237 was formerly called ARTG 225; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in B.A. Major in Graphic Design; or DIGI 110 and ARTG 130; or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 241 (3) Illustration II

An exploration of the fundamentals of perception and semiotics as applied to illustration as both information and commentary. Assignments utilize the fundamental design elements within composition and concept development as part of the visual communication process. ARTG 241 was formerly called ARTG 141, ARTG 141T, ARTG 241T; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in B.A. Major in Graphic Design; or ARTG 140; or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 251 (3) Typography II

A continuation of Typography I with a study of more in-depth typographical topics, research and applications of design, and communication principles to more advanced, contemporary typographical design and communication problems. Topics include experimental typography, document formatting, and complex document structures. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in B.A. Major in Graphic Design; or DIGI 110, ARTG 130, and ARTG 150; or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 261 (3) Design Photography II

An expanded exploration of technical and aesthetic considerations involved in producing digital photographic images for graphic design. Improvement of technical proficiency with an emphasis on conceptual, communicative, and creative concerns. Other photographic media and techniques may be explored. ARTG 261 was formerly called ARTG 165T, ARTG 165; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in B.A. Major in Graphic Design or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 270 (3) Design Production

A study of design production process and its relevance and application to preparation of artwork for print and digital outcomes. All relevant aspects of contemporary printing processes, file management, and preparation will be studied and applied to design projects. ARTG 270 was formerly called ARTG 231; credit will not be granted for both courses. (2:1:0)

Prerequisite: Second-year standing in B.A. Major in Graphic Design; or DIGI 110 or ARTG 130; or permission of Department Chair.

ARTG 342 (3) Advanced Illustration

A continuation of the in-depth exploration begun in ARTG 241 of illustration as information and comment through composition, concept development and style as part of the visual communication process. (2:1:0)