| Summer Institute: Sculpture: Materials and Methods |
Early College Program Summer Institute |
402 (001) |
Summer 2026 |
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Description
This course is a rigorous exploration of contemporary sculptural practices, emphasizing critical relationships between form, material, and content. Students use research, instructor feedback, and peer support to realize their unique visions in three dimensions. Discussions of materials, processes, and hands-on practice empower students to move from concept to completed work, generating a better understanding of how sculpture is situated within the context of culture and society at large. Projects allow for investigating traditional and contemporary materials and methods, including installation, carving, casting, fabrication, mold making, and construction. Demonstrations of SAIC's digital tools, field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and artist presentations supplement the studio experience. Artwork and/or performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.
NOTE: Previous experience in sculpture is helpful, but not required. SAIC will provide basic equipment. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects.
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Class Number
1136
Credits
2
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| SI: Architecture: Analog & Digital Processes |
Early College Program Summer Institute |
404 (003) |
Summer 2026 |
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Description
This course explores contemporary thinking and making within architecture and its impact on public life. Students will develop skills in hand drawing, digital modeling, and physical modeling in 3D. Through collaborative work and one-on-one mentorship, students learn how architects develop design ideas, conduct research, and present proposals. Conceptual thinking is emphasized as students work to envision new approaches to the built environment through multiple design approaches. An active studio practice will feature drawing and hand-built models of proposed spaces, buildings, sculptures, and/or future environments. In addition, students examine the works of artists, architects, and writers for inspiration. Students can expect to gain knowledge of the contemporary architectural landscape and the appreciation of the impact other disciplines have on architecture and design. Students will create a portfolio-quality collection of sketches, technical drawings, physical models, and design presentation boards.
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Class Number
1007
Credits
2
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| Introduction to Architecture |
Adult Continuing Education |
501 (001) |
Fall 2026 |
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Description
Learn how to think, plan, and draw like an architect in this engaging course focused on the design process and investigating the impact of built environments. Explore architectural design and historical and contemporary architecture as you develop the skills and knowledge to advance your studies in our noncredit certificate program or at another institution. Field trips, readings, and class projects provide an overview of both the science and art of designing buildings. All levels of experience are welcome.
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Class Number
2341
Credits
1
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| Research Studio I |
Contemporary Practices |
1020 (033) |
Fall 2026 |
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Description
This studio course focuses on themes, practices, contexts, and questions undertaken by contemporary artists and designers. Research Studio I is a course that asks students to begin to develop and connect their own work and ideas with a diverse range of artists, designers, and communities. This course engages with cultural institutions including: museums, galleries, libraries and archives as resources of critical engagement.
Students will undertake various types of research activities: a) collecting and classification, b) mapping and diagramming, c) systems of measurement, d) social interaction, e) information search systems, f) recording and representation, and g) drawing and other notational systems.
Assignments in this course are faculty directed, open-media, interdisciplinary and idea based. The projects are designed to help students recognize their work habits, biases, strengths, and weaknesses. Students will experience a wide range of research methods and making strategies. Critique as an evaluative process used in art and design schools, is a focus in this course. Various methods and models of critique are used in order to give students the tools to discuss their own work and the work of others.
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Class Number
1421
Credits
3
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| Interiority |
Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects |
4050 (001) |
Spring 2026 |
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Description
This course familiarizes students with concepts and characteristics of interiority in architecture, with a focus on the physical, experiential, and cultural condition of interiority as a site for creative practice. Through design research projects undertaken in a studio context, students explore how interiority relates to contemporary issues such as health, privacy, and surveilance; and both the physiology and psychology of how we relate to interior spaces via our bodies and our senses. Class work includes lectures, readings, and group presentations and discussions.
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Class Number
1027
Credits
3
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