SUMMER 2026 COURSES
The following courses are offered summer 2026 in Fine Arts. Advisors are ready to assist you with choosing the most appropriate class for you. If you have specific questions about course content, please contact Jaime Knight, Department Chair - jaimecknight@unm.edu, or the instructor for the course directly. Faculty bios and emails can be found here.
Contact an advisor directly at (575) 737-3698 or click HERE to register.
Under certain circumstances, prerequisites may be waived. You must contact an advisor directly to facilitate this request.
SUMMER 2026
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The 2026 summer session runs June 1st through July 28th
July 4th is a holiday
Introduction to Ceramics - ARTS 1310
w/Megan Bartley-Matthews
Face to Face - Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00AM-2:30PM
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.
Introduction to Digital Media Editing - Photoshop - FDMA 1515
w/ Adrian Pijoan
Online, asynchronous
In this course, students will learn how to use the tools in Adobe Photoshop to create new images and edit existing images. Tools used will include selections, layers, and adjustments, among other pixel editing tools. Basic composition and output will be emphasized in all projects.
Introduction to Graphic Design - ARTS 2431
w/ Michael Tashji
Online, asynchronous
Introduction to the principles of visual communication and digital media, letterforms, typography and identity marks. Projects produced using conventional and digital tools.
Students will work from analog (drawing/painting/collage/) and digital (Adobe Suite and other computerbased platforms) process to develop a fundamental understanding of the basics of Graphic Design. Topics include basic terminology and graphic design principles, introduction to the fundamentals of design that lead to the discovery and comprehension of the visual language. Form, balance, structure, rhythm, and harmony are studied in black and white and in color.
Students will be proficient in basic tools and techniques used in today’s communication industry, including digital graphics, the design process (the creative brief, working with clients, brainstorming, consideration of your audience, promotion, ethics), software proficiency (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), typography, branding and logos, and design formats (web, print). Readings, writings, slide lectures, and videos on relevant artists, designers, and periods in art and design history will be assigned and presented throughout the semester in conjunction with each project.
Introduction to Art - ARTH 1120
w/ Kimberly Thompson
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).
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 7: Arts and Design

