Art Educator Workshop: Digital Art Methods and Tools (online)

Course description

This week-long workshop for art educators explores different methods, tools and techniques of creating dynamic digital artworks in Adobe Photoshop, including layers, masking, blend modes, lasso tools, and digital painting basics. The course includes instructor-led demonstrations, as well as independent projects and work time to explore the techniques and concepts covered each day of class.

A brief introduction to Photoshop and basic tools is covered for those not familiar with the program. All demos and instructions are done in Photoshop. Participants are also encouraged to share curriculum and classroom teaching ideas with one another throughout the class. At the end of the course, educators will be able to apply what they have learned to their curriculum. Class time is split between presentations, dialogue and studio time. For success in this class, students should have a set up that includes a computer with a graphic tablet, a drawing tablet, or a drawing monitor and stylus or sensitive pen. Each student will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud software throughout the workshop. / This class has a one-hour lunch break each day. / Graduate credit is available.

Open to students ages 18 and above. View complete policies before completing your registration.

Prerequisites

Previous drawing experience is helpful, but not required. Previous experience with Adobe Photoshop helpful, but not required. Example Photoshop skills that would be helpful include basic familiarity with the program and a general comfort with navigating the tools and interface.

Class meeting details

This course is synchronous, meaning students meet daily at the same time. Class meetings are held via Google Meet and include lectures, demonstrations, exercises, critiques, time to ask questions and one-on-one meetings with the Instructor. Class meetings will be recorded. The daily online schedule will be split in two parts.

• Mornings: (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) class meeting for lecture, demonstrations and exercises.
• Afternoons: (1:00–4:00 p.m.) independent work time, office hours and one-on-one meetings; (4:00–5:00 p.m.) class meeting for group discussions and critique.

Required materials

Supplies
Pen or pencil; notebook or sketchbook.

Software
Adobe Creative Cloud (provided by MCAD).

Hardware

• Computer capable of running Adobe Creative Cloud software, with internet access, a camera, and microphone for class meetings.
• Graphics tablet (such as a Wacom Intuos, Huion Inspiroy, or similar) OR a drawing monitor (such as a Wacom Cintiq, Huion Kamvas, or similar) or other setup with a pressure sensitive pen (such as an iPad and Apple Pencil).

Note: A basic graphics tablet will cost $40-$100. Students are recommended to purchase a tool that works for their budget. Please contact the Continuing Education office with any questions about digital tools, setup and purchases.

Class resources

This class uses Adobe Creative Cloud and Canvas, MCAD's learning management software. Please see link for more information.

Class savings

Art Educator Workshops are not eligible for the early or multiple class registration discounts.

This class does not qualify for the $25 tuition waiver or the alumni discounts.

Questions?

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.