Art Studio: Digital Fabrication

Hands-on experience with digital fabrication technologies (both hardware and software) that are popular with contemporary artists; opportunities to practice design iteration and rapid prototyping and experiment with art-making practices such as tessellation, 3D Imaging, generative design, artificial life and interaction design. Prerequisites: ARTS 1010, ARTS 1011, ARTS 1014, ARTS 1100, or ARTS 1400; or Computer Science major or College of Engineering & Mathematical Sciences student; minimum Junior standing. Cross-listed with: CIS 2460.

Prerequisites: ARTS 1010, ARTS 1011, ARTS 1014, ARTS 1100, or ARTS 1400; SART, AHST, ARTE majors only during the first week of registration;  CAS ARTS , ARTH minors only for the following 3 days; Non-CAS minors for the following 2 days; then all restrictions will be removed; Fee: $55 minimum Junior standing. Cross-listed with CIS 2460 A; Total combined enrollment: 18 PACE students with permission and override.

This studio art course explores how artists and designers are transforming ideas into objects by bridging traditional making with emerging technologies. The course profiles art practices at the intersection of art, architecture, and technology, examining how digital tools are expanding the vocabulary of artistic practice. Students will learn to use creative software and fabrication equipment to bring their designs to life: carving wood block prints with a CNC router, drawing with robotic pen plotters, and building three-dimensional objects with 3D printers. Whether you're interested in pattern-making, printmaking, sculpture, or exploring new forms of creativity, this course offers hands-on experience with tools that expand what's possible in your artistic practice. No prior experience with digital fabrication or coding required. Just bring curiosity and a willingness to experiment

This course is well suited for students who consider themselves explorers and problem solvers and those who are curious and tenacious. Prior technical knowledge is not necessary, and the course welcomes all majors. Course assignments include studio-art-based projects, readings, and reflections.

Evaluation is based on work quality, student effort, referenced research and drafts, risk-taking, following assignment directions, and completing work (following through on ideas). The course requires consistent attendance and active class participation. Assignments are explained in detailed documents. Work above and beyond the articulated requirements is more likely to receive high marks.