DRAWING
This course seeks to introduce students to the technicalities of drawing, through the proper use of a pencil and exploring the flexibility of their wrists and fingers for fluid drawing. By the end of the first semester, students will be expected to translate three-dimensional information into two-dimensional space, by learning how to plot, locate and add volume. They will be exposed to various mediums of drawing through the study of different surfaces and texture by using organic forms as well as mechanical objects. The year will see students introduced to the concepts of texture, depth and space. Students will complete outdoor assignments as well as those relating to the human figure, active environments, light, close-ups and transformation.
BASIC DESIGN
This course seeks to develop technical expertise and conceptual growth through a series of structured problems. These exercises are organized in a manner to give students room to experiment analytically and intuitively. They are introduced to the elements and principles of design which are line, texture, form, value, colour and negative-positive spatial relationships, balance, rhythm, proportion, unity and harmony. These concepts are developed through visual activities which include but are not limited to creating compositions with lines and shapes, designing a unit that is repeated and arranged in different ways to make a composition or border, creating texture with different mediums, studying the metamorphosis of shapes and objects.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
This course seeks to inculcate the understanding of two and three-dimensional representation of built form. It begins with the study of the basic cube and pyramid form leading to general household items and further on to buildings. Initiation into this programme is done through an introduction to various instruments and methodologies. Students are expected to master the concepts of plan, elevation, section and its three dimensional representation in axonometric. They are taught one and two point perspective in free hand as well as with drafting tools. To have a feel for the tools and pencils they are taught to use the T-scale and setsquare together, to align the sheet and draw lines of different widths and intensities. Students are also actively encouraged to express their vision through models so that they can refine their technical skills.
MATERIALS AND PROCESSES
This course aims to give a fundamental exposure to three-dimensional work. It not only raises technical awareness but also enables the students to look at the human-made world around them and to begin to understand it with greater insight. The materials that are explored in this course are clay, plaster of Paris, wood and metal and a number of working processes associated with them. In addition to this, the course seeks to provide students with field experience and includes assignments that involve realization of a concept from the sketch book to the material.
TECHNICS
The course is geared towards a broader conceptual understanding of the basic principles of design. This can be achieved by understanding the linkages between art, design and architecture. These linkages can be seen in the abstract and real concepts of space, in reference to the human scale. Euclidian geometry is discussed. A basic understanding of geometric form in 2D or polygons, and 3D or polyhedra, regular and irregular is established. In polyhedra, platonic and non-platonic forms are discussed and constructed. Structure is broken down in three topics: geometrical, functional, and static. Consideration is also given to the physical and structural properties of materials. Modern and contemporary architects are briefly discussed in light of the “form vs. function” debate. Stress is placed on precise and effective visual, verbal, and written communication.
STUDY SKILLS
This is an intensive course designed to develop reading, writing and research skills. It includes regular written assignments and equips students to deal with theory course requirements at the school.
STUDENTS WEEK
A Students’ Week is an important part of the Foundation Programme and is held at the end of the Spring and Fall Semesters.
STUDENTS WORK DISPLAY
This is an important, Bi annual event of the Foundation Programme, where all the work done by the FP students in their studios, is displayed, and their parents, families, and friends are invited to see their work.
PORTFOLIO REVIEW
Students portfolios are reviewed once in the Spring and Fall Semesters and teachers counsel them in their progress.
Important | Curricula, courses and course outlines are continuously under review. The Indus Valley School reserves the right to alter, substitute, eliminate from or add to the list of courses and details at any time without notice.
