Linear Drawing and Notan Design
Module 1 will cover a basic understanding of how to draw from life. I will present different strategies to self-correct one’s work in order to fine tune the relationship between what one sees and drawing that visual phenomena accurately. We will focus on linear drawing and Notan which is the beginning of understanding value and design.

The Course Format
Welcome to the course format that we will be using moving forward.
I will present an exercise or project in this form:
1. Video instruction and demonstration.
On this site I have loaded video instruction that you are to watch carefully. The most recent lesson will have a direct link which will appear on Brightspace under the Module we are working on and the day we are on within the Module.
2. The materials and paper we will use.
3. The Exercise or Project.
I will describe the exercise or project and indicate what objects or materials you are to use. I will also show my demo drawings or examples by well known artists, hand-outs and previous student examples.
4. Deadline.
I will indicate when the project will be due.
5. Thread.
I will start a discussion thread on Brightspace under the topic that students may reply to. I will participate in this thread. You are not to start a new thread, but only reply to one I have started. This may help you in your work.
6. Emails.
I will take emails at jreeve@sunysullivan. You may send me photos taken on your phone to help you with your drawing. Do this before you upload your final image to Assignments in Brightspace. Think of this as me going around the class and personally helping you and answering questions.
7. Upload your image onto Brightspace to the assignment section.
When you have completed the Exercise or Project, you are to take an image of it on your phone and upload to Brightspace in the Assignment section where this project is listed. This is the same method we use to answer the video questions [These are the videos on Technique by other artists, educators and photographers].
8. If there are any questions, please feel free to email me and I will do my best to keep on top of your needs.
Assignment
Space
Create a space where you can do your drawing. You need a table and a light source. And a place to keep your kit and supplies.
If using a window as your light source:
Place the table perpendicular to your window. This will create the situation where the light will come from the side and illuminate your objects primarily from the top and side creating more distinct form and cast shadows.
If using a table light:
Place the table out of the way in your house. Place your lamp on the side of your table so that the objects are illuminated from the top and side. This creates more distinct form and cast shadows.
Find a board/ cardboard to place your drawing pad on for support. Use an Amazon box if necessary.
Select a chair, preferably without arms, to sit in. Lean your board with the pad against the table and placed on your knees. [As I recommend in class]
Task:
Take a photo of this place and upload to the Assignment section under Time/Space.
T/TH, Due:
M/W, Due:
Time
Secondly, set aside the time you are going to work on your projects. It is very difficult to be self-disciplined. If you do not schedule this time now, you will not be able to keep up on your work. Each week covers 3 hrs. and 40 min. of class time. Plus, there are homework assignments. So expect to put in 4.5 hrs. per week. Schedule that time NOW!
I will release the entire Module on the first day of that Module. You may work on the Module at your own pace but please follow the video instructions in order. Students must be conscious of the due dates. These are not flexible. The assignments must be uploaded to the assignment section by the DUE DATE posted for each assignment. See Grading Criteria if your work is late.
Module 1 Classes
Below are the links for Module 1 which will be your lessons through the first week of October. They will be released in order according to the class schedule.