Course Syllabus

ART 2680 Écorché - The Muscles

Course Description

The focus of this course is the historic tradition of Écorché (or Flayed human figure). Class time will be devoted to the production of a reduced life écorché’ sculpture stressing the relationship of human muscle and bone. Lectures and assignments will reinforce the study of human anatomy and its importance to the practicing artist. A lab fee is required.
Repeatable for credit

Justification

This course is an integral part of Figurative foundation curriculum programs. Its primary goal is to provide a sound foundation in the visual representation and construction of the human figure. It is offered at other state and private institutions throughout the country. Anatomical knowledge is a marketable skill, that animation studios as well as graphic design firms stress the importance of this ability in their job searches. It is a complementary course to BIOL 2150 Human Dynamics + 2155 LAB, offered to art majors through the Science Department.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding, proficiency, and fluency in the following Snow College Visual Arts Student Learning Outcomes of Material Proficiency:
   Students will be introduced to the historic process of ecorche’ (which in French means flayed, or skinned) through the mediums of sculpture and drawing. Students will be instructed to use a variety of materials and techniques, through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
2. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding, proficiency, and fluency in the following Snow College Visual Arts Student Learning Outcomes of Conceptual Principles:
   Students will be instructed in the formal approaches of the ecorche’ process, through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations. The overall intent or focus being to accurately portray the muscle systems of the human body.
3. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding, proficiency, and fluency in the following Snow College Visual Arts Student Learning Outcomes of Historical Context:
   Students will engage in a dialog examining the historic practice and the contemporary application of ecorche’ through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
4. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding, proficiency, and fluency in the following Snow College Visual Arts Student Learning Outcomes of Critical Analysis:
   Students will learn the process of critical analysis (both orally and in written form) as it applies to ecorche’ through lectures, group critiques, and demonstrations. To visually assess and verbally express your efforts is an integral part of the creative process.

Course Content

Content and skill development will include:
•Drawing & sculpting the flayed human figure
•Drawing & sculpting exercises designed to enhance the ability to understand human physiology
•3-dimensional rendering of the human form, starting from the skeleton and working outward
•Model and cadaver imagery to highlight the construction of human anatomy
•The use of Apps and Software to demonstrate the dynamics of human Physiology
•The visual dialog of critical analysis.
Instructor will present content from a range of perspectives and approaches to cater to various student skill sets and needs.