Module description

The module will introduce students to both the academic and practical aspects of traditional methods of drawing archaeological finds. The academic aspects will concentrate on types of technique; style; materials and equipment used; the layout and presentation of drawings for publication; scales; the requirements for publication reductions. The practical work will involve the preparation of drawings to the 'camera ready' stage (i.e. presented to publication standard). The practical sessions will concentrate on the drawing of: flintwork; pottery; metalwork; stone and bone artefacts. Digital drawing including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Computer aided design. Principles and conventions for using image-editing software to restore faded and discoloured photos. The practical work will involve the preparation of drawings and photographs to the “print ready” stage (i.e. presented to publication standard). Each week will include a practical session. These will concentrate on hand illustrating pottery, metalwork and lithics, digital finds drawing including the use of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, digital site mapping, digitising versus photographing pictures and image processing ready for printing and screen publication.  

The learning outcomes from this module`s imaging lectures (weeks 8, 9, and 10) were designed to complement the ARCL0035 Archaeological Photography module whilst avoiding overlapping any of its content.  

Module Aims The aims of this module are to introduce the discipline of archaeological illustration in order create a good understanding of the skills of communication via illustrations and imaging. Covering wide aspects of the subject with particular focus on finds illustration, digital drawings and photography as  well as gaining the skills to create good digital illustrations to enhance the student’s future output. 

Learning Outcomes  

Gaining practical skills of finds drawing (traditional and digital) and assessing the value and appropriate use of each technique. 

Basic knowledge of digital programs such as Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. 

Ability to produce simple, clear, engaging and well-presented illustrations and images. 

Learning to draw for reduction; skills of neatness and how to present work for publication and developing ideas in discussion. 

Engage with various software and techniques for editing photographs. 

Confidence in the use of simple cameras and digital manipulation will be instilled.  

Transferable skills other than the specific content of the course will include basic drawing skills, hand-eye co-ordination, visual analysis, critical and interpretive skills in studying primary data.

 

Aspects of the delivery of this module may be affected by restrictions due to Covid-19