Noncredit Courses
Noncredit Courses
Upcoming Sessions
Spring Registration Opens October 15th
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.
Winter Intensive Courses this January
Adult Continuing Education offers 1-Weeklong and Weekend Intensives that provide artists, designers, and travelers opportunities to advance their practice in one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world: Chicago. Emerging and established artists will enjoy the kinship and camaraderie that is quickly established when working with their peers. Travel to Chicago for an art intensive this January!
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.
Register online
Interested in furthering your artistic development? Learn more about combining ACE courses to earn a Certificate.
Featured Courses
View all courses and register today!
This adult art class explores the work of Paula Modersohn-Becker whose work foreshadowed Expressionism. Taught by experienced instructor Susan Musich, a long time participant within the art community in Chicago, this evening art class will guide you through the halls of the Art Institute’s modern wings. Whether you are diving into a creative hobby, or a serious student of art history, this course will take you down the bold paths of the landscapes, self-portraits, and figurative work of this feminist icon.
Intro to Photography is a beginner art class for adults who want to finally learn how to use their digital camera! Deepen your creative expression under the tutelage of experienced instructor, Lauren Koo, who will teach composition and photo editing in black and white and color. This evening art class is perfect for the novice photographer, or someone making the transition from analog to digital.
This skill-building intensive is the perfect weekend art retreat for those seeking to level up their graphic design chops. World class art instruction is provided at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago where you will create projects using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems and a solid design vocabulary.
Intro to Drawing is an exciting weekend art retreat for students looking for a unique art experience in downtown Chicago. Develop your observational drawing skills and refine your hand-eye coordination in this winter seasonal program. Investigate the perceptual and the conceptual through texture, light, and shade!
Sewing Techniques is a weekend art retreat that provides world class art instruction for those seeking to participate in a skill-building intensive that will give them the foundation skills to construct their own garments! In this beginner art class, you will sew together garments from patterns, create original designs, or explore fabric as a medium for soft sculpture.
Title | Catalog | Instructor | Schedule |
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Introduction to Illustration | 501 (001) | Alex Perkins | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 08, 2024 - December 10, 2024 |
Description
Explore the illustration process as your instructor guides you from ideation to freehand sketching and ultimately creating a final illustration. Experiment with a variety of materials and styles, including traditional and digital illustration techniques. As you begin to craft your illustrative point of view throughout the course, you will also learn more about the landscape of contemporary illustration. This course will not focus on the development of observational drawing skills. All levels are welcome, even those with no prior drawing experience.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Interior Design | 501 (001) | Alaina Griffin | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 02, 2024 - December 11, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Art Survey at AIC: Impressionism and Post-Impress | 501 (001) | Joseph Cunniff | Fri
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM October 04, 2024 - December 13, 2024 |
Description
Meeting in the galleries of the Art Institute of Chicago museum, this course takes advantage of one of the largest and most significant collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Gauguin, Manet, Monet, Renoir, Seurat, Toulouse-Lautrec, and van Gogh, among others. Through lectures and discussions, students will develop the ability to look closely at, analyze, and discuss the works presented as they learn about the period in which it was created.
This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue. Art Survey at the AIC: Impressionism and Post-Impressionism fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Graphic Design | 501 (001) | Riesling Dong | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 07, 2024 - December 09, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Interior Design | 501 (002) | Richard Kasemsarn | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 08, 2024 - December 10, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Art Survey at AIC: Ancient to PreModern | 501 (002) | Joseph Cunniff | Sat
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM October 05, 2024 - December 14, 2024 |
Description
This course examines a selection of seminal works in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Classes meet in the galleries and observe, discuss, and find connections between works in different points of history. Students learn how to analyze a work of art, as well as gain insights into the context of specific periods, the lives of the artists, and range of expression as a basis for further inquiry. This course, part of a three course series, begins with Ancient Greece and Rome and continues through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and 17th and 18th century Romantic periods, ending with the late 19th century and the dawn of Impressionism. Such renowned artists as El Greco, Rembrandt, Rubens and Turner are included, as well as lesser-known artists.
This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue. Art Survey at the AIC: Ancient to PreModern fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Graphic Design | 501 (002) | Riesling Dong | Sun
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM October 06, 2024 - December 15, 2024 |
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 |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Interior Design | 501 (003) | Richard Kasemsarn | Sat
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM October 05, 2024 - December 14, 2024 |
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 |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Patternmaking and Construction: Below the Belt | 502 (001) | Jasper Alan Drummond | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 02, 2024 - December 11, 2024 |
Description
Students in this course create, manipulate, and sew patterns that cover the lower half of the female form. Students learn to draft a basic skirt and pant to develop professional slopers, build waistbands, and pattern pockets and fly fronts. Prerequisite(s): Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals or equivalent experience.
Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Digital Photography | 503 (001) | Lauren Koo | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 02, 2024 - December 11, 2024 |
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) or mirrorless camera with manual functions; no point and shoot cameras.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Digital Drawing: Objects + Space | 503 (001) | Mon
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 07, 2024 - December 09, 2024 |
|
Description
Students will develop an understanding of software interfaces as they learn to translate 2D drawings into 3D models, working with digital drawing tools including Autodesk AutoCAD and SketchUp, and a rendering solution.
Students are responsible for their software when this course is offered online. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Drawing | 503 (001) | Erik Brown | Sun
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM October 06, 2024 - December 15, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Digital Design: Adobe Photoshop | 503 (001) | Anthony Hamilton | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 02, 2024 - December 11, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Drawing | 503 (002) | H Schenck | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 08, 2024 - December 10, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Color Theory | 504 (001) | Rhonda Castillo | Wed
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 02, 2024 - December 11, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Color Theory | 504 (002) | Andrew Sterrett Conklin | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 08, 2024 - December 10, 2024 |
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.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving | 505 (001) | Katie Vota | Tues
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 08, 2024 - December 10, 2024 |
Description
Learn to weave in this beginner's course, exploring traditional tapestry approaches such as interlocking, inlay, and shape-building alongside basket weave, twill, soumak, pile, rya, and twining techniques. Don¿t have a frame loom? No problem. Your instructor will walk you through building your own. Through faculty guided discussion and presentations, you¿ll also deepen your understanding of weaving's relevance in relation to material production, fine art, and craft. Presentations on contemporary handweavers supplement this studio experience. No experience is necessary.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Inspired by the Exhibition: Paula Modersohn-Becker | 507 (001) | Susan Musich | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM November 07, 2024 - December 12, 2024 |
Description
During her short life, Paula Modersohn-Becker (1876-1907) charted her path in a bold style that foreshadowed Expressionism. Today, she is a posthumous feminist icon, and her place in art history is being recognized. The course will consider her figurative work, self-portraits, landscapes, and still lives in the context of her biography and art history. Sessions will take place in the exhibition and the Art Institute's modern galleries.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Introduction to Typography | 507 (001) | Riesling Dong | Thurs
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM October 03, 2024 - December 12, 2024 |
Description
This introduction to typography is recommended for those pursuing a career in art and design fields, and those interested in the history and development of analog and digital type. The course functions as a working lab with multiple projects guaranteed to build confidence and knowledge in typographic usage. Students learn about typographic history, type dos and don?ts, type terminology, setting copy and display text, using style sheets, type styles, and handwriting and illustrative calligraphy. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Graphic Design or equivalent experience.
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Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
Contemporary Watercolor | 508 (001) | Kaylee Rae Wyant | Sat
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM October 05, 2024 - December 14, 2024 |
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.
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Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
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!