Art Practices I - ARTS 1120
w/ Christopher Schuldt
Face to Face - Thursdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM
Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 221/223

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This course introduces the exploration of processes, ideas, and diverse media of visual arts. It addresses the thematic concepts that are central to the nature of art making today, with emphasis given to issues of LIGHT, FRAME, and MARK while developing an understanding of the elements and principles of design.

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Art Practices I is an interdisciplinary foundations course exploring the diverse processes, ideas, and materials of visual art. Students will work from a variety of approaches including (but not limited to) drawing, painting, sculpture, 2-D design, digital, and time-based media. They will address thematic concepts that are central to the nature of art today while also learning hands-on technical skills, craft, and presentation of finished artworks. Focusing on three distinct topics – Light, Frame, and Mark – students will engage in visual and conceptual problem solving, collaboration, and personal exploration of individual practice. Readings, writings, slide lectures, and videos on relevant artists and periods in art history will be assigned and presented throughout the semester in conjunction with each project.

 

 

​Drawing I - ARTS 1610
w/ Christopher Schuldt
Face to Face - Tuesdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 221/223

 

Drawing I introduces the basic principles, materials, and skills of observational drawing. Emphasis is placed on rendering a

3-D subject on a 2-D surface with visual accuracy. Other topics include historical and contemporary references as well as an investigation of linear perspective, line, value, shape, space & composition. 

 

This course is a survey of the basic techniques, materials, theory, vocabulary, and overall practice of observational drawing. Because abstraction is an exaggeration or alteration of reality, it is important to first learn to draw from life; therefore, the projects will be interpreted from a variety of natural forms including interior/exterior space, still-life, self-portrait, the skeleton, and an artist copy. These drawings will be executed using a variety of traditional drawing materials such as charcoal, pastel, Conté, pencil, and ink. With these materials, students will develop an understanding of technical variety in mark-making using perspective, proportion, scale, volume, texture, contrast, value, line and shade. Toward the end of the semester, students will be introduced to color and collage and create more experimental works on paper. Each session will be devoted to studio work with some art historical discussion and/or critique. 

 

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design (Core)

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​​Painting I - ARTS 1630
w/ Gary Cook
Face to Face - Mondays, 9:00AM-2:30PM
Prerequisite: ARTS 1610 (Drawing I)

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 221/223

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Painting I introduces the tradition of painting as a medium for artistic expression. Students will investigate materials, tools, techniques, history and concepts of painting. Emphasis is placed on developing descriptive and perceptual skills, color theory, and composition.  

 

This course introduces basic concepts and develops technical and perceptual skills using acrylic or oil (preferred). Students will learn the fundamentals of observational oil painting, focusing on representational paintings of a variety of subjects including still-life, landscape, and self-portrait. We will discuss the visual information in painting, the dialogue surrounding painting and its formulas, and when it is appropriate to abandon those formulas. Students will make several short-session paintings throughout the semester, rather than focusing on one or two highly polished works, and learn of a variety of techniques accumulating in a confident, contemporary painting style. ​

 

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​Introduction to Ceramics - ARTS 1310
w/Megan Bartley-Matthews 
Face to Face - Tuesdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM OR Fridays, 9:00AM-2:30PM (Dual Enrollment Priority)

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 214

 

This course introduces the technical processes and conceptual concerns of working with ceramic material. Various methods of forming functional and expressive works out of clay are explored. Methods used include hand building and throwing, basic clay bodies, slip and glaze, and atmospheric firing.

 

Terminology, concepts, historical and technical information will be presented. Techniques will include the hand building techniques of pinch, coil, slab and molding. Wheel projects will include cylinders, bowls and mugs. Individual creative development is encouraged. There will be both self-selected and assigned projects.

 

​Ceramics I - ARTS 1320
w/Megan Bartley-Matthews 
Face to Face - Thursdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM
Prerequisite: ARTS 1310 (Introduction to Ceramics)

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 214

 

An introduction to the medium of clay incorporating hand building and wheel throwing to introduce the student to both the sculptural and utilitarian uses of clay. The student will also be introduced to a variety of glazing and firing techniques. 

 

Continuation of Arts 1310 with an emphasis placed on the mastery of forming, surfacing, and firing processes. Intermediate hand building and wheel throwing techniques will include projects with lids, spouts and decorating. Making and formulating glazes, as well as variety of firing techniques will also be presented. Expanded critical awareness and the development of a personal aesthetic will be encouraged. There will be both self-selected and assigned projects. 

 

 

​​Introduction to Printmaking - ARTS 1710
w/ Gary Cook
Face to Face - Wednesdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM
Prerequisite: ARTS 1610 (Drawing I)

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 229

 

This course provides direct experience of exploring basic printmaking processes, including relief, intaglio, and monoprint processes, as well as the investigation of materials/media, tools, techniques, history, and concepts of printmaking. Emphasis is given to solving problems through thematic development while producing a portfolio of prints. 

 

Fundamental techniques in Introduction to Printmaking are presented and practiced in a survey format. Methods and expressive potentials of the major printmaking processes are taught. Instruction includes lecture, demonstrations, practice, and critique. At the conclusion of this course, the student will develop awareness of the unique properties of a wide variety of print processes and the historical development of printmaking and it’s influences on contemporary works; develop technique and the proper use of tools and materials within the print shop as a collaborative working space; Utilize a journal/sketchbook as a documentation process, to develop concepts, generate source material and aid in self-criticism and exploration; increase understanding of his/her own aesthetic aspirations and how these objectives can be expressed using the print media; and create a foundation for more advanced study of print media. 

 

​​Topics: Monoprint - ARTS 1165L
w/ Gary Cook
Face to Face - Tuesdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM

Prerequisite: ARTS 1710 (Introduction to Printmaking)

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 229

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Monotype explores the addition and subtraction methods of monotype printmaking to produce exciting images. Monotype is an old method that has received new attention in today's society. Students explore its relationship to other contemporary forms of art and develop a personal direction in their work. 

 

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​Jewelry & Small Metal Construction I - ARTS 1810
w/ Kimberly Thompson

Face to Face - Fridays, 9:00AM-2:30PM

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 211

 

This course introduces the basic techniques, materials, and tools traditionally used in the creation of jewelry and/or small-scale sculptural objects.  Students will explore fundamental fabrication practices and demonstrate proficiency in skills and a comprehension of visual vocabulary. Coursework will include examination of the history and practices of jewelry-making and metal casting within a global perspective.  Techniques covered may include soldering, stone setting, lapidary, and casting. 

 

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design.​​​

 

​​Advanced Jewlery and Metalwork - ARTS 1820 (2 CREDIT TOPICS CLASS)
w/ Kimberly Thompson

Face to Face - Fridays, 3:00PM-5:30PM

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 211

 

This class combines demonstrations with hands-on practice for advanced jewelry students, building on already established fabrication skills. Class meetings will focus on refining challenging soldering techniques, sophisticated finishings skills, and advanced design planning. Students will create collection based work, producing pieces of jewelry using comprehensive design strategies. The outcome will include item such as, but not limited to, pendants, chain, rings, earrings, brooches, and bracelets. 

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Class enrollment requires instrutor permission.

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Sculpture I - ARTS 184

W/ Izumi Yokoyama Face-to-Face - Wednesdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Room 221/223

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This course introduces the student to a variety of medium and techniques used in the production of sculpture; along with the historic, conceptual, and esthetic foundations of the sculptural process.

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area VI: Creative and Fine Arts: Arts and Design.

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Intro to Art and Ecology - ARTS 1143

W/ Jaime Knight Face-to-Face - Mondays, 9:00AM-2:30PM

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Studio 230*

 

This course is an introduction to the history and practice of the interdisciplinary field of art and ecology. Students will investigate artistic practice, political ecology, environmental justice, and the interrelationships between cultural and ecological systems. 

 

Through readings, discussion, lectures, and projects, we will explore how art can respond to–and make meaning within–the context of climate crises, mass extinction, colonialism, extractivism, and beyond. In order to expand the space of possibilities for thinking/feeling/making, this course aims to identify and to challenge distinctions between art and science, theory and practice, knowledge and affect. 

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Students will participate in on site creative making and service learning. Service Learning is a collaborative process of working together to develop ideas within the community and create diverse projects that address real world issues both conceptually and in real life. Current collaborators are the PASEO Project Disturbance Project and Taos Land Trust. Potential collaborators are Taos Pueblo, the Natural Resouce Management Program and more.

 

Students need to be willing to meet off campus and work together on transportation. We will be working outside and in the field. Students who are interested in topics like gardening, landscape, climate change, ecology, environmentalism, social justice and creative processes as diverse as photography, drawing, sculpture, site specific, social practice and land art are all encouraged to apply.

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*This class includes potential off-site field work in the City of Taos Region including, Taos Land Trust, Taos Municipal Land Fill, Taos Pueblo, Taos Gorge, and extended Klauer Campus

 

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area VI: Creative and Fine Arts: Arts and Design.

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Portfolio Development - ARTS 2110

W/ Jaime Knight Face-to-Face - Tuesdays, 9:00AM-2:30PM

Klauer Campus - Fred Peralta Hall - Studio 230

 

Harwood Museum Student Exhibition Project. Instructor approval required.

This class will serve as a framework for a curated student show at the Harwood Museum.

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The Harwood Museum of Art, in collaboration with the University of New Mexico-Taos Department of Fine Arts, presents an exhibition highlighting the work of current students and recent graduates of the Associate in Fine Arts program. On view from March 27 through July 4, 2027, the exhibition offers a snapshot of an evolving artistic community rooted in Northern New Mexico and shaped by the educational environment of UNM-Taos. 

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Students must be enrolled in the Associates in Fine Arts degree path and be recently graduated or graduating in the 26/27 academic year (unless otherwise approved). This class requires commitment beyond the Fall 2026 semester and does not guarantee the students place in the show. Students will work with the instructor and the Harwood Museum curatorial staff to mount a professional museum quality show. Students will participate in class critiques, one-on-one curator visits and developing the vision and qualities of the show as a group. Students can be working in any medium and must participate in the installation process at the museum the weeks prior to the opening of the show. 

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​​​​Introduction to Photography - ARTS 1410-800
w/ Adrian Pijoan
Online, asynchronous 

 

This course introduces the making of photographic images from a broad viewpoint to consider both as an art practice and as a cultural practice. The course covers basic technical information in camera use and functionality, composition, and visual design, digital workflow, editing, manipulating, and enhancing images correctly and effectively. 

 

Demonstrations, artist talks, assignments, and critiques will give students the beginning tools for creative exploration and expression in the medium of photography. Course content is created to get students thinking about the meaning of photographic images in history, culture, and in their own experiences. Students will gain the skills and knowledge to demonstrate visual voice through photography and competency in basic camera functions and composition.

 

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area VI: Creative and Fine Arts: Arts and Design​​​

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​History of Art II - ARTH 2120 - IN PERSON CLASS
w/ Katy Ballard

Takes place at the Harwood Museum Arthur Bell Auditorium

238 Ledoux St, Taos, NM 87571
Tuesdays, 3:00-5:30

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This survey course will explore architecture, sculpture, ceramics, paintings, drawings, and art objects from the 14th century to the Modern era. While focused primarily on the art of the Western civilizations, this course will also provide insights into the works of other major cultures in order to provide alternate views of art and history. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship of artworks to political, social, spiritual, intellectual, and cultural movements that affect and are affected by their creation and development. The course offers a creative project.

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area VI: Creative and Fine Arts: Arts and Design

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History of Art I - ARTH 2110
w/ Kimberly Thompson
Online, asynchronous 

 

This survey course explores the art and architecture of ancient pre-historic cultures through the end of the fourteenth century. While focused primarily on the art of the Western civilizations, this course will also provide insights into the works of other major cultures in order to provide alternate views of art and history. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship of artworks to political, social, spiritual, intellectual, and cultural movements that affect and are affected by their creation and development. The course offers a creative project using basic photography.

 

Canvas Online Course. This course is completed 100% online; access to a computer and the internet are required. Designed with Quality Matters Standards, ARTH 2120 provides an excellent learning experience and offers flexibility to Learners. Support with the technology of the course is provided on campus, by email, and by phone by the HELP support staff of UNM. Pacing may be accelerated for early completion.

 

Inclusive Access for this course: This course has been set up for inclusive access delivery, this means your materials will be accessible through UNM Learn when classes begin. You do not need to shop for the ‘title of the book’ ahead of time. You do not need to pay by credit card or any other method, you should not see a prompt for payment at all when using the inclusive access materials. Your specially discounted price will be billed to your UNM Bursar Account AFTER the add/drop deadline.

 

Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design (Core)

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Introduction to Art - ARTH 1120

w/ Paula King
Online, asynchronous 

 

This foundation course introduces and explores the visual arts on a personal, societal, cultural, and historical level. An excellent course for someone new to the study of art or the experienced artist, students learn about all art-making processes, art materials, and techniques used by artists, designers, and architects. Studies feature iconic artists throughout history and major art movements. Students will build on a broad knowledge base to practice the skill of formal analysis, in order to expand an art appreciation and grow a personal aesthetic. The course offers a creative project using basic photography.

 

Canvas Online Course. This course is completed 100% online, therefore access to a computer and the internet are required. Designed with Quality Matters Standards, ARTH 1120 provides an excellent learning experience and offers flexibility for busy students. Support with the technology of the course is provided on campus, by email, and by phone by the HELP support staff of UNM. Pacing may be accelerated for early completion.

 

Inclusive Access for this course: This course has been set up for inclusive access delivery, this means your materials will be accessible through UNM Learn when classes begin. You do not need to shop for the ‘title of the book’ ahead of time. You do not need to pay by credit card or any other method, you should not see a prompt for payment at all when using the inclusive access materials. Your specially discounted price will be billed to your UNM Bursar Account AFTER the add/drop deadline. Additionally, McGraw-Hill Connect Access will be required (includes ebook, Smartbook, course learning activities, and exams).

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Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area VI: Creative and Fine Arts: Arts and Design​​​​​​​

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Web-Design - COMM 2245

w/ Michael Tashi
Online, asynchronous 

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This course introduces web page and web design concepts, basic HTML coding skills progressing to the use of Dreamweaver to design a website. Students will gain practical experience in the production of an electronic information delivery product. This course assumes that you already have basic skills as a journalist, and will focus on helping you transfer your skills to the online format. Competency with personal computers required.

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