Instructors: Debra Satterfield, associate professor of art and design (graphic design) and Ann Sobiech Munson, assistant professor of architecture and art and design and director of the ISU College of Design's Core Design Program

 

The Iowa State University College of Design offered a two-day workshop in June for high school students to explore the many opportunities for study and careers in the fields of art and design. The workshop was taught by College of Design faculty members and hosted by the ISU Design West studio in Sioux City.

 

Students toured local offices and studios, interacted with local artists and designers, explored educational and professional paths in art and design, and practiced some design of their own through a series of "charrette" exercises modeled after the ways in which designers work. Sessions covered a range of disciplines, including studio art (such as drawing/illustration, digital media, fiber art, painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, wood design, metalsmithing), graphic design, interior design, architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning.

 

Hands-on projects exposed students to design studio culture; typical design processes that address conceptual, aesthetic, environmental and functional issues; independent critical thinking skills; and collaborative design work. The workshop culminated in a public exhibit, designed by student participants, featuring work produced during the two-day event.

 

Students and faculty, as well as area professionals found the workshop to be an extremely valuable experience.