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Noncredit Courses

Upcoming Sessions

Summer Courses: May 28–August 9

Engage in material exploration and learn new skills or refresh existing ones in our state-of-the-art facilities and studios. Investigate new modes of creative production, including laser cutting and 3D printing, or find inspiration with access to the Art Institute of Chicago museum, the Fashion Resource Center, Joan Flasch Artists' Book Collection, the Roger Brown Study Collection, and Video Data Bank. As a member of our community, one defined by practice and inquiry, you will cultivate creative confidence, learning with and from your instructors and peers as you produce work based on your personal research and interests.

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What does online learning look like?

Synchronous online courses will use the Zoom video conferencing platform, Canvas learning management system, and SAIC.edu email addresses to deliver course content and facilitate communication between the instructor and students. These courses meet at a specific time of day and are scheduled in Central Time.

Asynchronous online courses are project-based with no set meeting times and 24/7 access to course materials. Weekly activities may include readings, video demonstrations, tutorials, online discussions, assignments, and critiques.

Students enrolled in asynchronous courses will have weekly deadlines encouraged to promote interaction with the instructor and peers. Some instructors may also offer optional video conferencing opportunities through Zoom.

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View current and past brochures including course listings. 
Interested in furthering your artistic development? Learn more about combining ACE courses to earn a Certificate.

Title Catalog Instructor Schedule

Description

This course examines the fundamentals of two-dimensional design in the digital age. Students will explore principle elements of design including composition, color, and typography through a series of projects that introduce Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as primary graphic design tools. The importance of effective visual communication in both commercial and experimental design is stressed as students gain an understanding of the professional design process from the client brief to the finished digital project. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems, a basic design vocabulary, and an understanding of the specific role that Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop play in creating professional work. Before starting this course, students should be comfortable creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.

Class Number

1090

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Sharp 1108, Sharp 1108, Sharp 1108

Description

This 3-week summer intensive course will explore the intersection of performance and social justice through lectures, discussions, performance exercises, and exhibition. Students will create individual and collaborative performances that explore individual and community based strategies of resistance including, but not limited to, embodiment and enfleshment, protest, resistance, talking back to power, and going under the radar. Students will create three works of performance, installation, documentation and live performance in this course where one will be presented in the SAIC galleries and the final in a public event in 280 building. Two national and international guest artists/scholars will join the course to lecture, lead workshops, and respond to student work. The course explores the relationship between performance and social justice which takes on a greater sense of urgency today as we face what Christina Sharpe would term ‘immanent and imminent death’ (p.13) That is, the persistent threat of domination and the lived experience of marginalized communities. Therefore, how do we attend to physical, social, and figurative annihilation through our art practices? Available for credit and non-credit enrollment.

Class Number

1391

Credits

3

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

Artist in Residence Program

Location

280 Building Rm 012, Lakeview - 1608, 280 Building Rm 015, MacLean 2M

Description

This 3-week summer intensive course will explore the intersection of performance and social justice through lectures, discussions, performance exercises, and exhibition. Students will create individual and collaborative performances that explore individual and community based strategies of resistance including, but not limited to, embodiment and enfleshment, protest, resistance, talking back to power, and going under the radar. Students will create three works of performance, installation, documentation and live performance in this course where one will be presented in the SAIC galleries and the final in a public event in 280 building. Two national and international guest artists/scholars will join the course to lecture, lead workshops, and respond to student work. The course explores the relationship between performance and social justice which takes on a greater sense of urgency today as we face what Christina Sharpe would term ‘immanent and imminent death’ (p.13) That is, the persistent threat of domination and the lived experience of marginalized communities. Therefore, how do we attend to physical, social, and figurative annihilation through our art practices? Available for credit and non-credit enrollment.

Class Number

1391

Credits

3

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

Artist in Residence Program

Location

280 Building Rm 012, Lakeview - 1608, 280 Building Rm 015, MacLean 2M

Description

This 3-week summer intensive course will explore the intersection of performance and social justice through lectures, discussions, performance exercises, and exhibition. Students will create individual and collaborative performances that explore individual and community based strategies of resistance including, but not limited to, embodiment and enfleshment, protest, resistance, talking back to power, and going under the radar. Students will create three works of performance, installation, documentation and live performance in this course where one will be presented in the SAIC galleries and the final in a public event in 280 building. Two national and international guest artists/scholars will join the course to lecture, lead workshops, and respond to student work. The course explores the relationship between performance and social justice which takes on a greater sense of urgency today as we face what Christina Sharpe would term ‘immanent and imminent death’ (p.13) That is, the persistent threat of domination and the lived experience of marginalized communities. Therefore, how do we attend to physical, social, and figurative annihilation through our art practices? Available for credit and non-credit enrollment.

Class Number

1391

Credits

3

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

Artist in Residence Program

Location

280 Building Rm 012, Lakeview - 1608, 280 Building Rm 015, MacLean 2M

Description

This course introduces the skills and insights needed to be a successful interior designer and examines why some designs are more successful than others. More than a style-selection course, you will learn what is required to design and build an interior space, gain a general knowledge of how interior designers work, and examine what it takes to move creative designs from idea to reality. Included is a survey of important and innovative designs happening today.

Class Number

1066

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Sullivan Center 1241

Description

This course examines the fundamentals of two-dimensional design in the digital age. Students will explore principle elements of design including composition, color, and typography through a series of projects that introduce Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as primary graphic design tools. The importance of effective visual communication in both commercial and experimental design is stressed as students gain an understanding of the professional design process from the client brief to the finished digital project. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems, a basic design vocabulary, and an understanding of the specific role that Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop play in creating professional work. Before starting this course, students should be comfortable creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.

Class Number

1062

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

This course introduces the skills and insights needed to be a successful interior designer and examines why some designs are more successful than others. More than a style-selection course, you will learn what is required to design and build an interior space, gain a general knowledge of how interior designers work, and examine what it takes to move creative designs from idea to reality. Included is a survey of important and innovative designs happening today.

Class Number

1065

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Online

Description

Want to use Adobe Illustrator to create sophisticated and complex designs and illustrations while you hone your skills? Learn the basics of the program before moving on to master transparency, feathering, masking, compound paths, gradients, layering techniques, and the specifics of the pen tool. This course will feature dynamic class demonstrations, and group critiques, as well as personalized feedback from your instructor on each assignment and throughout the creative process. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course.

Class Number

1079

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 819

Description

Examine how portraits reflect society, culture, and individual identity as you explore works from across periods, styles, and mediums in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago museum. Uncover intricate narratives as you analyze subtle visual cues, symbols, and compositional elements to decode what they reveal about the subject and artist.

Class Number

1092

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

MacLean 608

Description

This course focuses on the foundations of photography and the various ways to use a digital camera. Students examine how to choose and shoot subjects that are both personally meaningful in content and contemporary in context. Instruction includes capturing and printing images in both black and white and color, and investigating digital photo editing. Discussions on the history of photography and individual and group critiques are included. Students must supply their own digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera with manual functions; no point and shoot cameras.

Class Number

1082

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Photography

Location

280 Building Rm 106

Description

Learn the skills you need to manipulate and enhance photographs and digital images. Explore the principal elements of design including composition, color, and typography, as you develop strategies for solving design problems, a design vocabulary, and an understanding of the key role Photoshop can play in creating professional work. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course.

Class Number

1087

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 908

Description

This course emphasizes the development of observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. The learning sequence progresses from simple forms and skill levels toward more complex compositions. Basic drawing elements such as line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade are investigated through various perceptual and conceptual approaches. Open to beginning students as well as those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.

Class Number

1057

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

Examine the many possibilities of creating woven forms using a simple frame loom. Students begin by experimenting with the basic techniques of tapestry and plain weave as they explore ways of creating surface, image, texture, and various color effects within a woven form. Contemporary weaving projects, along with historical references, will be presented through discussions, visual presentations, demonstrations, and readings. This course is open to all levels.

Class Number

1060

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fiber and Material Studies

Location

Sharp 1215

Description

This course emphasizes the development of observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. The learning sequence progresses from simple forms and skill levels toward more complex compositions. Basic drawing elements such as line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade are investigated through various perceptual and conceptual approaches. Open to beginning students as well as those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.

Class Number

1085

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

Gain a competitive edge as a designer, artist, or maker by advancing your understanding of color theory. Learn about the variety of ways that color is considered and used as a design element. Working with current color theory principles and models, develop color plans and concepts in relationship to individual and group projects. This research is compiled in sketchbook/notebook format and is used as reference for independent projects. Studies and hands-on studio work reveal the multiple ways that color can transform concepts with cohesive and expressive results.

Class Number

1055

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Sharp 402

Description

Learn the skills you need to format layout projects in InDesign. Explore the principal elements of the software including paragraph and character styles, object styles, layers, and master pages, as well as how to import graphics. Develop strategies for solving design problems, a design vocabulary, and an understanding of the key role InDesign can play in creating professional work. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course, experience with Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop is recommended.

Class Number

1061

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Sharp 1108

Description

Gain a competitive edge as a designer, artist, or maker by advancing your understanding of color theory. Learn about the variety of ways that color is considered and used as a design element. Working with current color theory principles and models, develop color plans and concepts in relationship to individual and group projects. This research is compiled in sketchbook/notebook format and is used as reference for independent projects. Studies and hands-on studio work reveal the multiple ways that color can transform concepts with cohesive and expressive results.

Class Number

1084

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Online

Description

This course is for students that have a background in drawing, but little to no painting experience. Drawings serve as the foundation for acquiring new painting skills, and students are encouraged to develop their own ideas and goals with instructor guidance. Skills such as line, volume, space, materiality, form and function, and palette are explored through both drawing and painting. A variety of traditional and contemporary materials are used, and may include graphite, charcoal, pastels, water-based paints, mixed media, and/or collage. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago museum and discussions of practicing artists will supplement the studio experience and encourage inspiration and development of concepts in student artworks. By the end of the course, students will have a greater knowledge of material options and acquire the ability to transition from drawing to painting. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Drawing or equivalent experience.

Class Number

1069

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting and Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 321

Description

Part seminar and part workshop, this course will introduce students to both the fundamentals and possibilities of the poetic form. Through close study of the works and lives of three masters of poetic craft—Lucie Brock-Broido, Louise Glück, and Marie Howe—students will engage in lively discussions, practical experimentation, and in-class critiques, building the skills necessary to developing their own poetic voices. No prior poetry experience is required—all skill levels are welcome.

Class Number

1070

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Writing

Location

Sharp 328

Description

Learn to observe color and capture changing light along the city’s lakefront and in its parks. Intended for those with no outdoor painting experience, this course will cover the basics of equipment, materials, subject selection, and techniques for painting outdoors in acrylics, oils or watercolor. Observe and apply color to render forms in natural light settings working with a variety of subjects—landscape, cityscape, figure in landscape, portraiture, and still life. Students will be required to provide their own supplies, including a collapsible easel, which will be discussed in the first class meeting. Basic drawing experience is helpful.

Class Number

1068

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 120

Description

Inspired by the exhibition Georgia O'Keeffe: 'My New Yorks,' this course will explore the artists' urban-themed paintings, drawings, and pastels. Gain insight into O'Keeffe's unique approach to capturing the city, experimenting with scale, subject matter, form, and perspective. This course will also address works by other artists depicting cityscapes in the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.

Class Number

1093

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

MacLean 608

Description

How do we form an opinion about what we see around us? How do we make decisions that are relevant in the design world? In this course, students discuss, analyze, and discover the principles of design through a comprehensive exploration of successful projects envisioned by artists, architects, theorists, and authors. This course examines problem solving through the principles of design for a variety of project types, and will include lectures, readings, and individual assignments. Class discussions will explore new aesthetic trends and examine how ideas have evolved to address new issues.

Class Number

1056

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Sharp 314

Description

Students explore traditional and contemporary approaches to the watercolor medium, including gouache. A variety of techniques, papers and alternative painting surfaces, as well as mixed media processes are introduced. Intended for students with basic drawing skills as well as those with previous painting experience, the course is structured to encourage experimentation with scale, subject matter and formats. Critiques and discussions will support and encourage each student's personal direction.

Class Number

1088

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

Sharp 328

Description

Do you want to develop a proposal for a grant, residency, exhibition, or curatorial project? Are you applying to graduate school? This is the course for you! Learn how to research and identify opportunities, write an artist statement, and document and present your work. Upon completion, students will have a competitive advantage when it comes to securing new opportunities in today's contemporary art world.

Class Number

1067

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interdisciplinary

Location

Online

Description

Joining fabrics to cover the body and create shelter has been a prized skill in the progress of civilization. Students will build on that tradition by learning fundamental seams and finishes used in modern day garment construction. Industry standards of sewing are emphasized and all techniques are taught and practiced. In addition to creating a personal library of seam samples, students will apply the techniques in two basic projects. The class will also discuss fabric characteristics and the proper copying and cutting of patterns. Once mastered, these techniques can be used to sew together garments from patterns, create original designs, or explore fabric as a medium for soft sculpture. No previous sewing experience is necessary. Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online.

Class Number

1086

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 704

Description

Joining fabrics to cover the body and create shelter has been a prized skill in the progress of civilization. Students will build on that tradition by learning fundamental seams and finishes used in modern day garment construction. Industry standards of sewing are emphasized and all techniques are taught and practiced. In addition to creating a personal library of seam samples, students will apply the techniques in two basic projects. The class will also discuss fabric characteristics and the proper copying and cutting of patterns. Once mastered, these techniques can be used to sew together garments from patterns, create original designs, or explore fabric as a medium for soft sculpture. No previous sewing experience is necessary. Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online.

Class Number

1072

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 703

Description

Engage with the unique architecture and urban landscape of Chicago in this digital photography course. Develop your style and perspective while capturing the city's essence through practical shooting assignments. Look to renowned photographers for inspiration as you refine your practice and gain insight into how photography has evolved and shaped our understanding of Chicago. Students must provide their own digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera with manual functions; point-and-shoot cameras won't be suitable. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Digital Photography or equivalent experience.

Class Number

1089

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Photography

Location

280 Building Rm 106

Description

This course explores graphic narrative storytelling, a recent cultural phenomenon that takes several forms and has roots in many cultures, including graphic novels, manga, comics, and film sequences, as well as Renaissance fresco and tapestry cycles. Weekly projects include drawing exercises, ideation through sketching, and research or writing as you investigate new ways to express a more personal vision realized as a short pictorial narrative.

Class Number

1059

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

Online

Description

This course explores graphic narrative storytelling, a recent cultural phenomenon that takes several forms and has roots in many cultures, including graphic novels, manga, comics, and film sequences, as well as Renaissance fresco and tapestry cycles. Weekly projects include drawing exercises, ideation through sketching, and research or writing as you investigate new ways to express a more personal vision realized as a short pictorial narrative.

Class Number

1064

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Illustration

Location

Online

Description

This course is about learning to see using the wonders of the Art Institute of Chicago as subject and the activity of drawing as the tool to learn to see. Each day will explore something new - the figure, composition, perspective, and gesture. Class sessions will begin with a demonstration and discussion of one approach to drawing after which the class will visit the Art Institute of Chicago and look carefully at specific works that relate to the theme. Morning drawing sessions will be directed. In the afternoons, students will work independently and develop their drawings or find a new subject in the museum's collection to which they can apply principles introduced earlier in the day. Class sessions will conclude as a group to share drawings and report on the experience. The instructor will support students individually and in small groups as they work. Previous drawing experience is beneficial.

Class Number

1071

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 308

Description

During this week-long intensive, students will explore contemporary approaches to designing and developing experimental garments. Activities will guide them through the process of developing original ideas, finding inspiration in the world around them, and responding to the work of other artists and designers. Students will also explore sculptural draping by deconstructing and reconstructing thrift store garments to create designs on the dress form. The School's Fashion Resource Center will provide inspiration and supplement the studio experience. This course will function as a working lab where experimentation and risk taking are encouraged to broaden technical and conceptual skills.

Class Number

1075

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 703

Description

The Art Institute of Chicago's collection includes nearly 300,000 works of art. Spend five weeks with an experienced guide exploring highlights from several periods. Each day you will meet in the Art Institute galleries to view artworks, share perspectives, ask questions and learn engaging stories and important information about some of the most revered artists and art movements in western history. Lectures will provide insight into the lives of artists and will build connections across various art periods highlighted in our world-class museum. Week one: Old Masters Week two: Impressionists Week three: American Art Week four: Early Modern Week five: Newer Trends

Class Number

1083

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

AIC Front Desk

Description

This class will guide students on a deep dive into the possibilities of monoprint and monotype - painterly printmaking processes that lend themselves to immediacy and experimentation while producing finessed and complex imagery. The class will introduce a variety of monotyping processes, as well as elements of collagraph and chine collé, then cover multi-layer registration, allowing for the planning and production of more complex compositions. Student work may incorporate elements of drawing, painting, and collage in combination with printmaking techniques, with the option to use SAIC laser cutters to produce photo-based printing plates. Students will have the opportunity to draw upon both the collections of the Art Institute and the immediate environment of downtown Chicago in their work as they produce several unique prints and variable editions during this one-week intensive.

Class Number

1074

Credits

0.33

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Printmedia

Location

280 Building Rm 203

Description

Want to use Adobe Illustrator to create sophisticated and complex designs and illustrations while you hone your skills? Learn the basics of the program before moving on to master transparency, feathering, masking, compound paths, gradients, layering techniques, and the specifics of the pen tool. In this asynchronous course, there are no set meeting times—you learn when it's convenient for you. Weekly activities include readings, video demonstrations, tutorials, online discussions, assignments, and critiques. Receive personalized feedback from your instructor on each assignment and throughout the creative process, as needed.

Class Number

1063

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

Designed for students who want to explore and experiment with contemporary and interdisciplinary processes in drawing and painting, while developing a daily artistic practice to sustain creativity. Work outside your comfort zone with feedback and support from your instructor and peers as you explore a variety of experimental techniques and concepts, including poetics, mark making, space, and embodiment prior to undertaking an independent project of your own choosing. This is an ideal course for those who want to think differently about their creative practice.

Class Number

1077

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting and Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 318

Description

Intended for students with prior figure drawing experience, this course is ideal for those who want to draw from the nude model in a faculty-guided group environment. The emphasis of the course is on developing expressive, interpretive drawings from life, while continuing to refine one?s skills. Critiques and discussions including historical and contemporary approaches to figurative art deepen understanding, support personal direction, and aid in the execution of ideas. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Figure Drawing or equivalent experience.

Class Number

1058

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

This course introduces the materials, methods, and tools of oil painting while students develop observational skills. Demonstrations on stretching canvas, laying out a palette, working with various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide students with the fundamentals of the medium and a strong foundation for future work.

Class Number

1081

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

This course will introduce students to acrylic painting through the exploration of traditional and contemporary approaches to the medium. Through demonstrations, individual dialogue, class discussions, and critiques, students will learn how to work with the acrylic paints. Artists including Mark Bradford, Helen Frankenthaler, and Mark Rothko will provide inspiration as participants complete a series of paintings on paper, canvas, and wood.

Class Number

1073

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 321

Description

Develop your personal style while producing well-designed and dynamic watercolor paintings. Learn wet and dry techniques, washes, color lifting, and glazing as you explore materials and techniques and experiment with a variety of subjects, including still-life, photographs, and your own subject matter.

Class Number

1091

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

Sharp 1216, Sharp 1216, Sharp 1216

Description

Focus on the intimate relationship between drawing and painting as you experiment with a wide range of multi-disciplinary approaches that will help build a bridge between the two. Experiment with traditional and non-traditional drawing and painting materials to deepen your connection to contemporary studio practices and develop technical and conceptual skills to expand your personal visual language. This immersive experience is intended for students that want to advance an existing painting and drawing practice. Independent studio time is supplemented by lectures and demonstrations, as well as opportunities to engage with your instructor and peers through discussions and critique.

Class Number

1076

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting and Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 321

Contact Us

Continuing Studies staff members are available Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. –4:30 p.m. CT at 312.629.6170 or cs@saic.edu to answer your questions. We are here to help!