Course Descriptions
ARTS (AR)
AR-101 Introduction to the Visual Arts (3)
General survey of major art styles and media, exploring the nature of visual art and its expressions.
Recommended for non-majors to fulfill general education requirements. Offered annually.
AR-103 Visual Design I (3)
A foundational course focused on the elements and principles of design to all visual arts.
An introduction to basic design and digital art, using various digital software, as well as drawing and painting materials.
Offered every semester.
AR-111 Drawing (3)
Basic principles of drawing using a variety of media; analytic emphasis is directed toward an understanding of
composition, form, line, value, and observation. Offered every semester.
AR-120 Intro to Applied Arts (3)
This course introduces students to the theory, practice, and professional applications of the applied arts. Through the
exploration of visual art, design, storytelling, digital media, and creative problem-solving, students examine how artistic
skills are used to communicate ideas, address real-world challenges, and engage diverse audiences. Emphasizing creativity,
collaboration, and innovation, the course provides hands-on experience with contemporary creative practices and introduces
students to careers in the arts, media, design, and related fields. Students develop foundational skills in visual and narrative
communication while exploring the social, cultural, and ethical responsibilities of creative professionals. Consistent with
Chaminade University's Marianist mission, the course encourages students to use their creative talents in service to their
communities and a changing world.
AR-201 Arts and Culture I (3)
An introduction to the visual arts of both Eastern and Western world from the prehistoric era to the late middle ages.
The basic premise of the course stems from a conviction that painting, sculpture, and architecture reflect the times, places and culture
that produced them. Offered annually.
AR-202 Arts and Culture II(3)
A study of painting, sculpture, and architecture in the Renaissance to contemporary times of Western world and
later periods of Eastern world. Offered annually.
AR-250 Beginning Ceramics (3)
An introduction to working on the potter’s wheel and its various capabilities as a tool for clay work, incorporating
hand-building techniques. Six hours per week. Offered every semester.
AR-255 3D Design (3)
A foundational course focused on the principles and elements of design for three-dimensional/sculptural art.
Students learn how to turn a concept/idea into a three-dimensional work of art. Six hours per week.
Offered every semester.
English 102 and Communication 101 are prerequisites for all upper division courses
AR-350 Intermediate Ceramics (3)
Intermediate technique focused on qualities of form, function, and style including wheel-throwing in ceramics.
Glaze development and approaches to firing techniques are introduced. Six hours per week. Offered every semester.
Prerequisites: AR 250 or consent of instructor.
AR-355 Sculpture (3)
Intermediate techniques in hands-on sculpture and 3D design, developing structural and perceptual senses
with an emphasis on 3D perceptions of space, scale, and environment. Interior Design students may focus on
conceiving, producing and justifying 3D conceptual objects within the context of interior spaces.
Cross-listed with EID-355.
Prerequisites: AR-255 or EID-200, or consent of instructor.
AR-360 Visual Design II (3)
An introduction to the visual language of graphic design and illustration in a wide range of media and contexts,
from paper to screen, from digital environments to public spaces. Offered annually.
AR-425 Art for Social Justice (3)
How can art contribute to positive social change? This course examines the role of artists, creative communities, and
cultural institutions in addressing social, political, and environmental issues through artistic practice. Drawing on
examples from Hawai?i, the Pacific, the United States, and global contexts, students explore how visual art, performance,
film, public art, digital media, and community-based creative projects have been used to promote awareness, foster dialogue,
and inspire action. Through the study of historical and contemporary movements-including Indigenous cultural revitalization,
civil rights advocacy, environmental stewardship, and social justice initiatives-students analyze the relationship between creativity,
civic engagement, and community well-being. Consistent with Chaminade University's Marianist mission and commitment to education
for adaptation and change, the course emphasizes ethical leadership, cultural awareness, and the responsible use of creative
expression to address contemporary challenges.
AR-450 Integrative Arts (3)
Focuses on the creative process of art-making in a series of cross-disciplinary projects, exploring dynamic uses and
opportunities of various art forms in cultural, social, and environmental contexts. Offered annually.
AR-455 Arts of Time (3)
A study of time-based media in pages and motion to explore various layouts for print, edit, and video-making
with linear and non-linear narratives. A spirit of play and experimentation are encouraged in ways that can influence
conventional thinking processes. Offered annually.
AR-460 Painting: Narrative/Figuration (3)
Focuses on the human figure and creates narrative in painting. Students' works are based from direct observation,
crafting works that explore imagery, symbolism, and setting.
Prerequisite AR-360 or permission of instructor.
AR-480 Art Research Seminar (3)
Focuses on research and writing skills in the discipline and literature of the art and design fields, providing an opportunity
to conduct and share research findings in multidisciplinary groups. Class taken with consent of instructor.
AR-481 Applied Arts Project Seminar (3)
The Applied Arts Senior Seminar connects students' shared experiences in the arts with their individual paths of study and creative practice. As the culminating experience of the Applied Arts & Digital Media degree, the seminar emphasizes the development and realization of creative and scholarly projects within a supportive and collaborative learning community. Reflecting Chaminade University's Marianist mission, students are encouraged to engage the arts as a means of thoughtful inquiry, meaningful dialogue, cultural understanding, and service to the common good. Students apply advanced research and creative skills, communicate ideas with clarity and purpose, and engage in constructive critique that fosters both individual growth and collective learning. Each student completes either a research-based creative project accompanied by a 10-page written component or a traditional 30-page research paper. Students are evaluated on the quality of their research and creative work, as well as their active participation in collaborative workshops, individual conferences, and class presentations. Students will have the opportunity to present their work in a public exhibition, performance, or scholarly forum, demonstrating their readiness to contribute creatively, ethically, and professionally to their communities and chosen fields.
AR-499 Directed Studio Work (1 to 3)
Individualized work as arranged through the instructor. Alternate of special interest relating to the student’s major field of study.
Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing and consent of instructor.