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1. Fundamental theoretical concepts and terminology common to all two-dimensional art activities, including the basic elements of line, shape, value, texture, color, spatial illusion.
2. Organizing principles of two-dimensional art, including balance, proportion, repetition, contrast, harmony, unity, point of emphasis, and visual movement.
3. Problem solving visual exercises that develop two-dimensional awareness and require exploration and manipulation of the basic two-dimensional elements.
4. Dynamic relationships of two-dimensional elements and organizing principles.
5. Introduction and development of skills using a variety of media.
6. Translation of ideas and visual experience into images using both formal and conceptual approaches.
7. Evaluation and critique of examples of two-dimensional art from various cultures, historical periods, and aesthetic sensibilities.
8. Written assignments in which students must clearly articulate comprehension of the basic elements and principles of two-dimensional art.
9. Critical evaluation and critique of class projects.
10. Examination of contemporary trends, materials, and approaches in two-dimensional art.

1. Assignments based upon the elements of design.
2. Assignments based upon the principles of design.
3. Problem solving visual exercises that develop two-dimensional awareness and require exploration and manipulation of the basic two-dimensional elements.
4. Studio projects that explore the dynamic relationships of two-dimensional elements and organizing principles.  
5. Development of skills using a variety of artistic materials, techniques and tools appropriate to an introductory study in art, including but not exclusive to pencils, markers, inks, paints, glues and cutting tools.
6. Discuss, critique and evaluate their own two-dimensional compositions, as well as those of their classmates.

At the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate a working knowledge and understanding of the basic elements of a two-dimensional art, including line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion;
2. Demonstrate a working knowledge and understanding of the organizing principles of two-dimensional art, including balance, proportion, repetition, contrast, harmony, unity, point of emphasis, and visual movement;
3. Independently produce visual compositions and problem-solving projects that successfully incorporate the basic elements and organizing principles of two-dimensional art;
4. Make individual aesthetic decisions and judgments related to their own artwork;
5. Skillfully use a variety of artistic materials, techniques and tools;
6. Translate ideas and visual experience into images using both formal and conceptual approaches;
7. Discuss, critique and evaluate their own two-dimensional compositions, as well as those of their classmates;
8. Discuss and write a critical evaluation of two-dimensional art using the appropriate vocabulary and terminology pertaining to the basic elements and organizing principles of two-dimensional art;
9. Examine, compare and analyze historical and contemporary examples of two-dimensional art, within a global context.

Portfolio of completed work;

Group and individual critiques in oral or written formats;

Written assignments, which may include quizzes, essays, exams, or reports.

Ocvirk, Otto G. Art Fundamentals: Theory and Practice.