In the center of the word “Earth” is the word “art” — a connection that students at Evergreen have explored since the college’s founding. In E-ART-H, we continue this tradition with a curriculum that offers students a hands-on introduction to environmental studies, natural history, and the arts. Students will learn about art-science connections through the lens of Earth-art, art about Earth, and the science of Earth (terrestrial and aquatic organisms). Throughout the program, students will develop a range of skills: working with metals, sculpting with clay, and drawing from observation to produce effective field notes and scientific illustrations. In addition, students will spend time in the field learning to identify native plant and animal species in local forests, wetlands, streams, and marine habitats.
In fall quarter, we will focus on the Earth and natural sciences, with introductions to physical geography, forest ecology, freshwater science, and the natural history of plants and freshwater organisms. This foundation in environmental science will inspire artistic practices with short workshops in fine metals, other 3D media, such as ceramics, as well as scientific illustration. Students will learn basic metalsmithing techniques and 3D design fundamentals while exploring how different materials support creative intent. We will also learn about environmental history and its connections with other disciplines through a series of seminars on literature related to the natural world.
In winter quarter, our studies will shift to the oceans. Through a study of marine biology we will cover the diversity and adaptations of major groups of marine organisms. These scientific explorations will inform continued practice in fine metals and 3D design. Students will refine their metalsmithing skills and learn more about design and form, supported by ongoing critique and discussion.
In spring quarter, students will continue the examination of the oceans. Through a study of marine ecology we will investigate the interactions of organisms with physical/chemical processes in selected marine habitats from the estuary to the deep-sea. The art component will focus on developing intermediate techniques in fine metalwork to create original works that integrate ecological themes. Studio practice will emphasize craftsmanship, personal expression, and critique. The program will culminate in a final show featuring student work.
New students may join the program in winter. In spring, the program is only open to those students who have completed at least one of the previous two quarters (fall and/or winter).
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies: Fall Quarter (14 credits)
4 - Introduction to Earth Science and Environmental Science
4 - Introduction to Art: Fine Metals, Ceramics, Scientific Illustration
4 - Identifying Plants and Insects in Terrestrial and Freshwater Environments
2 - Introduction to Environmental Literature
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies: Winter Quarter (16 credits)
7 - Introduction to Marine Biology
7 - Introduction to Art: Fine Metals and 3D design
2 - Interdisciplinary Science-Art Seminar
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies: Spring Quarter (16 credits)
7 - Introduction to Marine Ecology
7 - Intermediate Fine Metals
2 - Interdisciplinary Science-Art Seminar
Registration
Students joining in spring should have been part of the program in either fall or winter quarter.
Academic Details
most areas
$150 fee each quarter covers art supplies ($100), lab fee ($25), and studio fee ($25).