Foundation

Foundation student work will demonstrate:

• Essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication while fostering social responsibility. Through hands-on projects and interdisciplinary learning, students develop both creative and practical competencies needed to navigate the evolving professional landscape.
• Proficiency in foundational art and design skills, such as foundational Drawing, 2D and 3D design, and multi-sensory fluency employing industry-standard tools, technologies, and methods across varied course projects. 
• The ability to connect and apply cross-disciplinary knowledge, integrating diverse perspectives, historical context, and varied technologies.
• The ability to conduct research with a clear audience focus, integrate historical and cultural contexts, and engage in field-specific discourse to develop informed and meaningful creative work.
• The ability to analyze, experiment, and develop innovative solutions to creative challenges by applying foundational art and design principles, critical thinking, and iterative problem-solving processes.

Foundation student work will dare:

• Develop innovative problem-solving skills by experimenting with new materials, concepts, and creative approaches.
• Experimentation and play as part of the creative process, exploring a variety of approaches and solutions.

• A beginning understanding of art and design conventions, exploring how to challenge the status quo in coursework.
• Bravery by challenging subjective limits in coursework and actively engaging in discussions and critiques.

Foundation student work will demonstrate:

• A deeper understanding of who they are as emerging artists and designers, reflecting on their strengths, challenges, and creative journey.
• Clear communication of ideas, processes, and outcomes through oral, visual, and written methods informed by reflections and critiques.
• The ability to research, synthesize, and critically assess diverse sources of information and apply them in their creative practice. 
• The ability to examine the ethical and aesthetic dimensions of art and design, considering their broader social, cultural, and historical implications.

Foundation student work will demonstrate:

• A deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between art and design practices and their social and environmental impacts, recognizing their role as contributors to a human and non-human ecosystem.
• The ability to critically reflect on their evolving identity and role as artists and designers within a global context, informed by their personal experiences, communities, and disciplinary interests as they prepare to transition into their chosen majors.
• Meaningful connections and dialogue across differences in collaborative and interdisciplinary practices.
• The ability to synthesize and apply foundational art and design skills, concepts, and knowledge as a basis for future academic and professional success.

Foundation student work will demonstrate:

• Identifying and articulating their academic and professional aspirations through written statements or presentations, demonstrating alignment between their goals, creative identity, and role within the evolving creative economy.
• Presenting their work to peers and faculty with clear articulation of concepts, methods, and creative intentions, demonstrating thoughtful organization, effective communication, and responsiveness to feedback.
• Presenting work effectively by completing assignments and critiques, demonstrating creativity, technical skills, and conceptual development growth.
• Planning, organizing, and managing projects effectively, balancing creative and logistical demands within given deadlines and resources.
• Readiness to enter the major, as evidenced by active engagement with critique, showing an ability to both receive and offer constructive feedback.