NAS Part III Archaeological Illustration
Recording module
Aims:
The aim of the course is to introduce students to theories and techniques of archaeological illustration. The course is taught through a combination of presentations and practical instruction. Both real and replica objects from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore shipwreck collection will be used during the course.
The course is aimed at both divers and non-divers, anthropology students, individuals undertaking the NAS Training program, together with professional archaeologists wanting to expand their knowledge of archaeological documentation techniques.
Course outline:
- Introduction to the difference between a drawing and an archaeological illustration.
- How to set up an artefact for an archaeological drawing.
- Basic procedures and techniques of archaeological drawing.
- Produce a selection of illustrations from some of the main types of materials: wood, metal, leather, pottery, stone.
Teaching Outcomes:
The presentations will introduce the student to archaeological illustration, touching briefly on early examples of archaeological illustration, highlighting the difference between drawing and illustration, and explaining the purpose and requirements of illustration.
Students are introduced to the main illustration tools and the techniques for producing a successful illustration, from the initial pencil draft version to the final pen drawing. The conventions used for different materials will also be introduced.
Practical sessions will involve students producing a number of illustrations from the various material categories to illustrate the different shading and handling techniques. Throughout the day students will receive practical feedback on their drawing work. Students are expected to produce at least one drawing to publication standard by the end of the course.
Cost and Credits:
A maximum of 6 credit points will be available in the Recording module. The cost for the course is $180. It is recommended that students bring their own drafting pens – rotring pens in sizes 0.18, 0.25, 0.35 and 0.5 will be used. Part III courses are open to everyone; however credit points will only be awarded to those who have completed the NAS Part I Course.
Suggested Reading:
Archaeology Underwater, The NAS Guide to Principles and Practice. A Bowens(ed). 2008. Blackwell, London
Adkins, Lesley and Roy 1989 Archaeological Illustration Cambridge Manuals in Archaeology ISBN: 0-780521-354783
Griffiths N, Jenner A and Wilson C 1991 Drawing Archaeological Finds – A Handbook Occasional paper No.13 of the Institute of Archaeology, University College London. Archetype Publications Ltd ISBN: 1 873132 00 X
Course Instructor: Doug Domine