Faculty
Second Year
During the Second Year, students take up one of the three areas of specialization offered by the School of Design: Graphic Design, Fashion Design, and Fine Arts/Illustration.
Academic Program
The Altos de Chavón School of Design’s program of studies consists of two academic years divided into four semesters. Courses in the first academic year, the Foundation Year, introduce the general concepts of art and design referred to as “visual literacy" and are taken by all students. An emphasis on drawing provides students with skills that graduates of other design schools often lack. After completing the basic courses, students progress to the Second Year, where they specialize in their chosen major.
The School of Design reserves the right to make changes in the program and curricular offerings as it deems necessary, as well as to cancel, in part or in its entirety, any program that does not have a sufficient number of matriculated students
Foundation Year
Drawing has been the essential language of art and design since Lascaux, and the Foundation Year is all about the magic of drawing from observation. The curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of design and the design process, design in two and three dimensions, and digital design, along with the rich history of design. Through the art history program and liberal arts courses, Foundation Year students develop methods of investigation and analysis. They also come to understand the characteristics, conditions, and interests common to the different art and design specialties.
COURSES
Figure Drawing 1and 2
An intense exploration of the techniques required to understand and represent the anatomy of the human body. Drawing from live models takes place in a classroom specifically designed for this activity.
4 credits each.
Drawing and Composition 1and 2
A study of the concepts of line, form, and placement of objects necessary for two-dimensional drawing, covering spatial, compositional, and rhythmic elements. Chavón’s varied natural setting offers many possibilities for still life and landscape subjects.
3 credits each.
Two-Dimensional Design 1 and 2
A study of the production and manipulation of forms and figures on a single plane, as well as color theory. This class is a prelude to typography, package design, pattern making, and composition in illustration and fine arts.
3 credits each.
Three-Dimensional Design 1 and 2
A study of solid geometric forms and their relation to each other and the space between them. The program focuses on sculpture, and paper, wood, clay, and mixed media are included in the second semester.
2 credits each.
Introduction to the Computer 1 and 2
Introduction to the basic art and design programs using the Macintosh platform. The course demystifies this 21st-century design tool and provides students the skills to master it.
3 credits each.
World Art History
An overview of the movements and trends in art, beginning with prehistoric cave painting and arriving at 21st-century creations. This two-part course provides a contextual outline for understanding the skills students are learning in their studio classes.
3 credits each.
Fundamentals of Design
An exploration of the many facets of the world of design. The Arts and Crafts, Bauhaus, and Memphis movements are covered, along with the process of design.
2 credits each.
English
A study of the spoken and written language and an exploration of contemporary literature at levels appropriate to each student’s skills. Students are enrolled in English, English as a Second Language, or Advanced English Conversation and Literature each semester of their two years at The School.
3 credits each.
Second Year
During the Second Year, students take up one of the three areas of specialization offered by the School of Design: Graphic Design, Fashion Design, and Fine Arts/Illustration.
Majors
Graphic Design
Graphic Design is concerned with communication between the written word and the image.
Fine Arts / Ilustration
Fashion Design
Digital Design
Inside Chavón
PERFORMANCE 08
The PERFORMANCE aims to give students an opportunity to take an introspective voyage culminating in a presentation before an audience. visit
Digital Projects :: Video Art
El performance tiene la intencion de dar a los estudiantes una oportunidad de hacer un viaje introspectivo que culmina en la presentacion ante un publico de la historia de esa jornada.. visit
