Foundations Advising

Sequencing and Transfer Credit 

Our four Foundations courses may be taken in any order and have no prerequisites to enroll. They serve as prerequisites for many upper level courses you’ll take in your degree program. You may transfer in credit for ART 1001, 1002, or 1003 if you have taken a comparable 2D Design, 3D Design, or Introductory Drawing course elsewhere. Speak with your advisor if you have questions about transfer credits. 

Foundations courses are designed to help prepare you for Candidacy Portfolio Review if you choose to major in BFA Art Education, BFA Graphic Design, BFA Studio Art. See this page for more information about portfolio reviews. 

10 Tips for Success in Foundations 

  • Embrace growth and curiosity. Be open to new experiences and let them shape your creative journey. Growth comes from exploring the unknown and challenging yourself.
  • Experiment and learn through failure. Take risks and embrace mistakes—they’re part of the creative process. Every failure is an opportunity to grow.
  • Engage with your creative community. Connect with others on campus and beyond. Different perspectives enrich your work and spark fresh ideas.
  • Ask questions and challenge norms. Don’t settle for “good”—dare to ask questions that lead you to uncharted territory. Every question opens new possibilities.
  • Focus on the process. Creative work is about the journey, not just the outcome. Trust the process, even when the destination isn’t clear.
  • Prioritize well-being. Take care of your body and mind—healthy habits fuel creativity. Balance leads to better work.
  • Allow space to explore. Let your thoughts and making wander. The best ideas often come when you least expect them.
  • Stay connected. Reach out to faculty, peers, and the creative community for support and collaboration. We’re all here to help each other grow.
  • Collaborate and share ideas. Work with others and engage in constructive dialogue. Collaboration leads to deeper insights and stronger work.
  • Be true to your work. Stick to your creative vision. Authenticity in your practice leads to meaningful growth and transformation.
A man wearing a black face mask with a curved wooden structure strapped to his shoulders and holding a red and black accordion-style mechanical arm extension.

Foundations II - Body Extension Project

Andy Brooks
A graphite still-life drawing featuring a violin leaning upright, a vase with tall flowering branches, loaves of crusty bread, a wine glass, a handheld mirror, strands of beads, a small book, and decorative boxes arranged on a draped surface. Signed "Nick Skews B" in the lower left.

Nick Skewes
Window-mounted sculptural installations made from wire, fabric, and translucent materials, suspended in wooden frames against a bright sky.
Student in a pink beanie and denim jacket leans over a drawing, using a piece of charcoal to shade while their fingers show smudges from the medium.

In my third foundations class, my first project was on a 30' by 40' canvas. I was so scared to start, but my professor encouraged me to challenge myself and I loved how the project turned out.

Alexandria Linney