Fine Art - Eesti Kunstiakadeemia / Estonian Academy of Arts

Name of curriculum (in Estonian) Kunst 

(in English) Fine Art 

Code: 

Certified in the Council of EAA 

February 19, 2002 

Educational institution: Estonian Academy of Arts 

Level: Bachelor Programme / VI level of higher education 

Data about accreditation of the curriculum: 

Volume in credit points 120CP / 180 ECTS credits 

Nominal study period in years: 3 years 

Admission requirements: Secondary education, state examinations in native language and foreign language. 

To start studies, persons with secondary education must compete for student places in entrance examinations 

organised by the faculty of fine arts. 

Objectives: Main objective is to guarantee offspring of Estonian professional artists. Estonian Academy of 

Arts is the only university in Estonia teaching fine arts on B.A. as well as M.A. level. 

Short description of curriculum and study arrangement: Curriculum of fine art includes line study of fine art 

and speciality studies of graphic art, painting and sculpture. These specialities all belong into the same field, 

however having quite different specificity and technologies. For student, B.A. programme starts with one-year 

line study of fine arts, in which the department of painting is teaching painting, department of graphics - 

computer study of design programmes, calligraphy and calligraphic drawing as well as printmaking, and 

department of sculpture - form study. Drawing, composition, theory and language courses are taught by 

relevant centres of the academy. After successful passing of one-year line study student can apply for 

continuation of B.A. programme in the speciality of graphics, painting or sculpture. Commissions of the three 

specialities make decisions taking account of the wish of the student. Speciality courses of the curriculum of 

fine art are divided into five-week or 5+5-week cycles of auditory work, which can be taken as electives 

within the faculty as well as the whole academy from other specialities. Thereby the curriculum has provided 

to the student sufficient freedom to choose in order to compile personal B.A. programme. Study in speciality 

departments is daily, taking place in stationary. Theory courses are held in lecture form, ending with 

examination or evaluation. General art subjects are passed as studio work instructed by the teacher as well as 

independently and will end with grading by department commission. Speciality art courses are passed as 

practical work in department workshops instructed by the teacher as well as independently and will end with 

grading or evaluation by department commission. 

Documents issued upon graduation: Bachelor diploma 

Issued degree: Bachelor degree in the speciality of painting, graphic art or sculpture 

Stages, levels, lines: B.A. courses of fine art are divided to three academic years, which in turn include 

two semesters and those include two five-week cycles of auditory work, workshop weeks and week of 

independent work as well as examination sessions. 

First two semesters include general studies of fine art, followed by four semesters speciality studies and 

four semesters M.A. studies. 

The curriculum FINE ART includes academic general studies, line study of fine arts and speciality studies 

of graphic art, painting and sculpture. In speciality study students can take courses also from other 

specialities of fine art, waiving courses of their own speciality in corresponding volume.

Upon passing the studies students can acquire B.A. degree in one of the three specialities. To get B.A. 

degree in one speciality, 80% of credit points must be collected in this speciality /40CP of 50/. In case of 

another distribution of credits B.A. degree can be received in fine arts. 

After acquirement of B.A. degree it is possible to continue studies in M.A. programme of own speciality or 

according to M.A. curricula not presuming specific speciality education as base study (teacher training, 

interdisciplinary art, e-media). 

GRAPHIC FINE ART, BA 

Short description of curriculum and study arrangement: Curriculum of the department of graphics includes two lines: 

graphic fine art and print-graphics. The field of graphic fine art includes everything related to the development of 

manual skills and creativity. Image processing and various possibilities of reproduction are studied more profoundly. 

Photography and study of classical and modern manual printing techniques form great part. The programme also 

includes compilation of academic and real exhibition projects and creation of exhibits. Study of print-graphics is 

traditionally related to a book. Since 1924 the department has its own printing workshop, where knowledge of all 

phases of bookmaking and bookdesign has been taught and study projects have been printed in the form of unique 

small books. Complex study of bookmaking will remain in the curriculum as the main field of print-graphics. This 

will also guarantee practical skills for possible employment of the future graphic artists. Both lines are related in 

curriculum, forming an integral educational packet. Print-graphics is divided into printmaking and book design. 

Graphic fine art is oriented to free creation, compilation of exhibition projects, analysis, presentation of own creation 

and acquirement of skills needed for an artist. 

Profile: 

Graphic fine art and book design. 

Cooperation partners: 

Tampere Scool of Art and Media, 

University of Art and Design Helsinki, 

Kent Institute of Art and Design, 

Sheffield Hallam University/ School of Cultural Studies, 

Limerick Institute of Technology/ School of Art and Design, 

Satakunta Polytechnic; 

Society of Graphic Artists of the Estonian Artists’ Association 

Estonian Art Museum, 

Estonian Literature Museum, 

Estonian Ethnographic Museum, 

Design company Positiiv, 

UBS Reprokeskus, 

Edition of the journal Kodukiri. 

Universidad Politecnica de Valencia, Spain 

Latvijas Mâksalas Akadêmija, Riia 

Grafikens Hus, Gripsholms Kungsladugård AB, Sweden 

PAINTING BA 

Objective: 

Objective of BA curriculum is to provide wide basic knowledge and skills for M.A. study or work as 

freelance artist. 

Studies take three years, of which the first year is passed as general study of fine art. In first year basic

knowledge is acquired also from all three specialities, in order to determine suitability of the student for 

certain speciality. 

II-III years include speciality studies. Curriculum of all three specialities is constructed in cycles, enabling 

to take courses also from side specialities. 

BA programme will end with compilation of portfolio and defending of thesis. 

Cooperation partners of the department of painting: 

Helsinki Kuvataide Akademia 

Riga Academy of Arts 

Vilnius Academy of Arts 

AS Pärnu Sadam. 

Eesti Ekspress. 

Haapsalu Town Gallery 

Kankanpää Ammatikorkeakoulu. 

Fondazione Romualdo del Bianco, Firenze. 

SCULPTURE BA 

ARGUMENT OF THE SPECIALITY 

Objective: 

Objective of the department is to enable academic higher education in the speciality of sculpture basing on 

integrated study, creative and scientific activities, complying with the standard of higher education. 

Profile: 

Due to current cultural policy, relative lack of orders and small number of sculptors the department 

prepares sculptors with wide profile. 

Graduates can participate successfully in exhibitions, ordered work, in small plastics as well as 

monumental art and various fields of environmental art. 

Levels: 

Graduate of B.A. programme will gain academic higher education in sculpture, which will enable to act as 

professional creative artist or master almost in all fields of sculpture. 

Cooperation partners: 

Art Academy of Latvia 

Satakunta Polytechnic. Department of Fine Art (Soome) 

Akademie Vytvarnych Umeni v Praze 

University of East Carolina (USA) 

Design Group of City Government 

Rakvere Town Government 

LIST OF SUBJECTS OF THE CURRICULUM OF FINE ART 

GENERAL STUDY CP/ECTS 

Cultural history 2/3 

History of Estonian art 2/3 

Aesthetics 2/3

Languages 4/6 

Philosophy 2/3 

World art history 4/6 

Drawing 14/21 

General composition 2/3 

Colour study 2/3 

Communication 4/6 

LINE STUDY 

Introduction to contemporary art 2/3 

Painting 4/6 

Form study 4/6 

Calligraphy and figural graphics 1/1.5 

Computer study of design programmes 2/3 

Print graphics 1/1.5 

Workshop 1/1.5 

Study practice 3/4.5 

SPECIALITY STUDY OF GRAPHIC FINE ART 

High relief print techniques 3/4.5 

Intaglio techniques 3/4.5 

Lithography 2/3 

Photography 3/4.5 

Digital graphics 7/10.5 

Typography 2/3 

Graphic fine art 6/9 

Book theory and history 2/3 

Book design 6/9 

Polygraphy 4/6 

Exhibition project 3/4.5 

History of graphic art 1/1.5 



Portfolio 3/4.5 

SPECIALITY STUDY OF PAINTING 

Portrait painting 2/3 

Figure painting 3/4.5 

Fresco and secco techniques 1/1.5 

Sgrafito technique 1/1.5 

Painting technique and technology A 2/3 

Nude painting I 2/3 

Nude painting II 3/4.5 

Glass painting techniques 1/1.5 

Creative painting of glass painting 1/1.5 

Abstract painting 6/9 

Creative nude painting 6/9 

Mosaic technique 2/3 

Combined mosaic techniques 2/3 

Painting technique and technology B 2/3 

Composition of fresco or glass painting techniques 6/9 


Study practice 3/4.5


SPECIALITY STUDY OF SCULPTURE 

Basics of composition 4/6 

Basics of architecture 2/3 

Font study 1/1.5 

Classical form study 17/25.5 

History of sculpture 2/3 

Environmental art 5/7.5 

Technology of sculpture 4/6 




SHORT DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECTS 

GENERAL STUDY 

CULTURAL HISTORY 

Study load: 2CP / 3 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: I semester 

Objective: To give overview of main problems of cultural history and introduce general cultural 

background of different periods. 

Content: The concept of culture. Main cultural theories. Primitive society and culture. Antique and culture. 

Religion and culture. Medieval cultural space. Renaissance. Shocks and culture. 

Method: lectures, seminars, independent work with literature, paper. 

Assessment: examination 

WORLD ART HISTORY I 

Study load: 1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: I half of II semester 

Objective is to give overview and develop understanding of early art forms until renaissance. 

Content: Lectures treat primeval, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Crete-Mycenaean, Greek, Hellenist, Etruscan, 

Roman, early Christian, Byzantine, Karoling, Otto and Romanic art and the seminar Gothic art. 

Method is lecture illustrated with slides, transparencies and books and seminar, for which students must 

first read the book of M. Camille ‘Gothic’ (Kunst, 2001). 

Assessment: Examination covers entire material treated in lectures as well as read independently. 1/3 of the 

grade is formed by participation and speaking in seminar. 

WORLD ART HISTORY II 

Study load: 1CP / 1.5 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: II half of I semester 

Objective: To provide knowledge about history of 15.-19. century art and architecture, to teach art 

ideologies and styles of corresponding styles. 

Content: The course is continuation of the first “World art history” course. It treats art and architecture of 

following periods: renaissance, mannerism, baroque, rococo, classicism, historicism/romanticism and

ealism - up to the end of 19. century. Overview of principles of art and architecture of mentioned periods 

and their realisation: teaching of composition and form peculiarities of styles, coloristics and ornaments. 

Method: lecture, seminar (1) 

Assessment: examination (knowledge test) 

WORLD ART HISTORY III 


Location in curriculum: I half of III semester 

Objective: To give overview of more essential stages of development, trends and problems of modern art 

from the moment of birth of modernism in the middle of 19. century to World War II. 

Content: The course provides introduction paradigmatic change in art processes in the middle of 19. 

century, analyse of art and social background of these changes. Example of the creation of E. Manet’ opens 

the essence of pre-impressionist transition period and content of radical changes. Observation of alternation 

of art trends, mechanism of this alternation, form characteristics and their mutual relations from 

impressionism to surrealism. Treatment of the problems of avant-garde, with more thorough concentration 

on life and creation of the most original creators in the history of modern art. 

Method: Lecture, independent work with literature, seminars. 

Assessment: Grade will be formed in result of following activities: 

1.Participation in seminar. 

2.Examination including three parts: 

1) Recognition of authors or style of paintings presented on 25 slides; 

2) test in order to control acquisition of more essential concepts and facts; 

3) essay on one of following topics: 

Birth of modernism. Role of Edouard Manet in pre-impressionist art. 

Impressionism: method, events, problems. 

Different faces of postimpressionism. 

Jugendstil as idea of synthesis. 

Fauvism and expressionism. Similarities and differences. 

Surrealism, successor of dada? 

Searches of abstract art in pre-war Europe. 

WORLD ART HISTORY IV 


Objective: For art students of II year, to give broad overview of development and problems of art after 

World War II in Europe and USA, in order to orient in complicated art processes and be able to take 

intelligent standpoint. 

Content: As this is primary course of art history, the treatment proceeds from linear time axis - sequence of 

art styles, their logical similarities or contradictions, relations with earlier art history, influences, deadlocks. 

Among general tendencies attention is focused on some key persons - Jackson Pollock, Clement 

Greenberg, Andy Warhol, Joseph Beuys and his student Anselm Kiefer, Bruce Nauman, Dennis 

Oppenheimer, historically Marcel Duchamp. 

Constant observation of alteration of assessments of art phenomena and their reasons, in order to realise 

facts from one side and from the other side assessment, which should not be taken as final. 

Political background of important major exhibitions: Venice Biennial, Kassel documenta, Manifesta. 

Finnish ARS exhibitions. 

Between Western art history, Estonian art is constantly referred to. 

Method: Lectures with slides, pushing of students to independent work (elaboration of Estonian literature + 

writing of more profound paper on the basis of foreign literature). 

Assessment: 

a)Paper on freely chosen theme, using unconditionally foreign literature. 

b)Written examination: slide test (10 works) and more profound answer to 2 questions, using lecture 

material and Estonian literature:

1. Abstract expressionism and its reflections in later art. 

2. Clement Greenberg’s formalist art concept. 

3. “Red”, “blue” and “green” revolution. Yves Klein. 

4. Joseph Beuys and social sculpture. 

5. Pop art in America, Andy Warhol. Pop in France and Germany. 

6. Performance and happening. From action painting to John Cage and Allan Kaprow. 

7. Art and nature: from land art to eco- and bio-art. 

8. Postmodernist turn (when, how, main terms). 

9. Art and business, art and feminism, art and memory (1980-90s). 

10. International large exhibitions and political background of their formation (Venice biennial, 

Kassel documenta, Manifesta). 

History of Estonian art I 


Location in curriculum: I half of IV semester 

Objective: to give overview of the history of Estonian art from its very beginning to classicism in 

19.century. To bring out identity of local art, visual symbols, main sources of inspiration, foreign loans, 

traditions and innovation. To determine the location of Estonian art in Baltic and the Baltic Sea art context. 

Content: The lecture course treats following themes: 

Sources of Estonian art history: Beginning of stone architecture and figurative art; Medieval sacral 

architecture: Churches and abbeys; Tallinn: From Danish stronghold to Hanseatic town; Hanseatic art. 

Bernt Notke and Michel Sittow; Renaissance and mannerism: Michel Sittow and Arent Passer; Swedish 

time: from baroque to classicism; Baltic villa rustica: manor architecture; Classicism. Johann Wilhelm 

Krause and Carl Ludwig Engel. 

Method: Lectures in lecture room and museums (studying of more important art examples in situ), 

seminars. 

Examination: Includes three parts. 1) Written essay on the basis of seminar materials. 2) Written analysis 

of two focal issues of the history of Estonian art in examination room. 3) Test for the control of main facts. 

History of Estonian art II 


Location in curriculum: II half of IV semester 

Objective: to give overview of the history of Estonian art from the formation of national art. 

Content: material is presented in time context, pointing out greater problems and breaking points in art. 

Method: lecture with slides 


PHILOSOPHY 


Location in curriculum: III and IV semester 

Objectives: to develop student’s skill of theoretical discussion and analysing ability, to develop the skill to 

see the world from different standpoints and discuss proceeding from them, to give necessary information 

for the formation of personal world view. 

Content: 

1. What is philosophy? 

2. Sophists 

3. Socrates 

4. Plato 

5. Aristotle 

6. Epicuros

7. Sceptics 

8. Stoic ethics 

9. Short description of medieval philosophy 

10. Problems of medieval philosophy 

11. Francis Bacon 

12. Rene Descartes 

13. Historical philosophy of Hegel 

14. Arthur Schopenhauer 

15. Sören Kierkegaard 

16. Friedrich Nietzsche 

17. Pragmatism: Ch. Peirce 

18. Pragmatism: W. James 

19. Historical philosophy of Spengler 

20. Scientific philosophy of Feyerabend 

Method: Lecture-seminars, during which students answer to the questions of the teacher and can submit 

questions themselves. 


Aesthetics I 


Location in curriculum: V semester 

Objective. Theoretical base for the development of professional world view and creative conception of the 

student. 

Content: History of aesthetics. 1.Subject and method of aesthetics. Main problems and basic concepts of 

aesthetics. 2. Main stages and ideas of the history of aesthetics: Ancient time. Middle Ages. Renaissance. 

Classicism. Enlightenment. German classical idealism. Romanticism. Positivism. Realism. 

Method. Lectures, essay is a precondition of passing. 

Assessment: Examination 

Aesthetics II 


Location in curriculum: VI semester 

Objective: overview of the trends of 20.century aesthetic thinking, its methods and problems 

Content: 20. century aesthetics. >From the end of 19. century the development of aesthetics has been 

characterised by splitting and fragmentarity. Changing of art world has brought up new and diminished old 

problems. Also cultural context, relation between science, technology and art has changed. Its result is 

several new problems in aesthetics: vanishing of art borders, diversity of type content of art, differentiation 

or similarity of author and audience, aesthetic value of everyday life and environment, feminism etc. 

Method : lectures and independent work 

Assessment: examination (seminar papers, written essay) 

English language 

Study load: 4 CP / 6 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: all specialities I and II semester 

Objective: teaching of specific vocabulary with development of general language. 

Content: 1. English as a Foreign Language. 2. English for Specific Purposes. 

Method: language lessons, papers, tests 

Assessment: preliminary examination, examination

German language 


Location in curriculum: I and II semester 

Objective: primary study of German language, acquirement of specific terminology, acquirement of 

reading language. 

Content: primary language training with suggestive method, grammar principles, reading, referring and 

translation of texts. 

Method: Communicative-traditional: language lessons, papers, seminars. 

Assessment: Current tests. At the end of semester according to study programme preliminary examination 

or examination. 

GENERAL ART SUBJECTS 

Drawing 

Study load 3 CP, 3 CP / 4.5 ECTS, 4.5 ECTS 

Location in curriculum I and II semester 

Objective: Development of visual thinking, cooperation of eye and hand, basics of independent 

creative work. Basics of plastic anatomy for drawing of human body. 

Content: Introduction to drawing - movement from simple geometric forms to complicated form - human 

being. Geometric forms - skull - head - living head - limbs - torso - figure - nude - moving from form to 

content. Proportions, skeleton, external body forms. 

Method: Practical work and individual instruction 

Theoretical part: lectures of plastic anatomy with modern visual tools (plaster forms, skeleton, tables, 

muscle man and textbooks for independent work). 

Assessment: grading 

Drawing 

Study load 3 CP, 3 CP / 4.5 ECTS, 4.5 ECTS 

Location in curriculum III and IV semester 

Objective: Fixing of skills and knowledge gained during first course. Moving from imitation to 

expression, basics of creative drawing. Development of the ability to set task. Improvement of technical 

skills. 

Content: Nude, figure, independent sketches; portrait; 

Method: Practical work - drawing after model and by heart. 


Drawing 

Study load 2 CP, 2 CP / 3 ECTS, 3 ECTS 

Location in curriculum V and VI semester 

Objective: Development of personal creative style through model drawing, improvement of drawing 

skills. 

Content: Stress is laid on large-format long-term drawing, in order to develop planning and concentration 

skills. Short-term drawings are preparation for long-term. Use of different techniques (charcoal, pencil, 

pastel, china ink). Attention to colour drawing as a tool. Large format is used, except sketches. 

Method: Practical drawing, various tasks. Independent work and individual instruction. Analysis of works. 

Assessment: grading

Drawing 

Study load: 3 CP, 3 CP / 4.5 ECTS, 4.5 ECTS 


Objective: Development of visual thinking, cooperation of eye and hand, basics of independent 

creative work. Basics of plastic anatomy for drawing of human body. 

Content: Introduction to drawing - movement from simple geometric forms to complicated form - human 

being. Geometric forms - skull - head - living head - limbs - torso - figure - nude - moving from form to 

content. Proportions, skeleton, external body forms. 

Method: Practical work and individual instruction 

Theoretical part: lectures of plastic anatomy with modern visual tools (plaster forms, skeleton, tables, 

muscle man and textbooks for independent work). 


Drawing 

Study load: 3 CP, 3 CP / 4.5 ECTS, 4.5 ECTS 


Objective: Fixing of skills and knowledge gained during first course. Moving from imitation to 

expression, basics of creative drawing. Development of the ability to set task. Improvement of technical 

skills. 

Content: Nude, figure, independent sketches; portrait; 

Method: Practical work - drawing after model and by heart. 


Drawing 

Study load: 2 CP, 2 CP / 3 ECTS, 3 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: V and VI semester 

Objective: Development of personal creative style through model drawing, improvement of drawing 

skills. 

Content: Stress is laid on large-format long-term drawing, in order to develop planning and concentration 

skills. Short-term drawings are preparation for long-term. Use of different techniques (charcoal, pencil, 

pastel, china ink). Attention to colour drawing as a tool. Large format is used, except sketches. 

Method: Practical drawing, various tasks. Independent work and individual instruction. Analysis of works. 


GENERAL COMPOSITION 


Location in curriculum: I sem. 

Objective: Provision of basic education: abstract organisation of level surface with basic elements: lines, 

surfaces, figures, their combinations. In parallel, spatial thinking is developed, which at the end will enable 

to create the illusion of multi-dimensional space on level surface. 

Content: Lectures include theoretic presentations and subsequent practical work. 

Themes of I semester: 1) Emptiness; 2) One line; 3) Two lines; 4) Rhythms of lines; examination. 

Themes of II semester: 5) Lines and surfaces; 6) Own space; 7) Spatial ornament; 8) Space and time. 

Examination. 

Method: Drawing in black-white colour on paper, in two last tasks computer can be used. Short essays are 

written upon treatment of some themes. In practical part of lecture music is used for perception of theme. 

Assessment: Grading of practical works exposed as integral composition together with analysis of written 

papers.

PAINTING 


Location in curriculum: II semester 

Objective: Painting of nature. Depiction of form with colour, creation of integrity through colour, 

principles and possibilities of composition. Association of nature and abstraction into one 

art language. 

Content: I Painting of figure. Man as art object and subject (meaning of pose, narrative, symbol). 

Man and space. 

II Painting of nude. Nude and colour, form and space. Body as sign. 

III Composition “Place”. 

Independent reality, abstract structure. 

Method: Practical work with instruction. Independent work. 6 works must be 

submitted. 


PAINTING 


Location in curriculum: IV semester 

Objective: 

To reach acquirement of technical methods and development of personal means of expression. 

Content: interpretation of situations staged with devices set by the teacher and models using oil painting 

and acrylic technique. 

Keyword: light-dark scale of colours, opposite colours, warm/cold tones, mixing of body tones, tone-intone 

painting, reflexes, coloured shadow, integrated colour, concept of space in painting, figure expressing 

colour problem and concept of composition, physical, emotional and colour relation of different objects in 

still life. 

Method: practical studio work. Acquirement of painting principles and skills in parallel to movement 

towards creative openness. No style dictate. 

LINE STUDY 

FINE ARTS, I YEAR 

Painting 

4 CP / 6 ECTS 

I and II semester. 

Objective: To provide elementary technical skills and knowledge for work with different colours and use 

of painting tools. Brief introduction of fresco techniques (fresco, secco, sgrafito, mosaic, stained glass). 

Composition of picture as integrity with colour surfaces. Development of creative self-expression and 

colour culture. 

Content: Introduction of painting. Treatment of relations between colour and surface proceeding from the 

theory of colour study. Opposition of simple and texture surface. Painting of different materials, searching 

corresponding brush technique and surface treatment. Problems of colour and texture are followed by 

treatment of colour and form. Structure of picture surface is developed on the basis of given still-life. 

Search of relations between surface and contour. Treatment of various formats according to composition 

setup. 

Head as a form. Main attention to general form, not character. Further movement to details and finally to

the stressing of type and character. Course is ended with independent picture “Exhibition picture”. 

Method: Practical work on the basis of given devices with regular individual instruction. Independent 

work. Workshops (brief course of fresco techniques) 

Calligraphy and figural graphics 

1CP / 1.5 ECTS 

Objective: development of manual expression skills. 

The subject is based on classical European and Eastern calligraphy. The aim is to develop intuition and 

manual expression skills by means of studio tasks. Practising text calligraphy as well as calligraphic 

drawing. Results will be graded by department commission at the end of semester. 

Study of computer design programmes 

2 CP / 3 ECTS 

I and II semester 

Objective: use of computer in creative work. 

Mastering the computer design programmes is necessary for every artist for direct realisation of creative 

projects or documentation of creation. Content of subject includes study of a bitmap programme - 

AdobePhotoshop as well as vector programmes - CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator and a layout programme 

Adobe PageMaker. Results are graded by teacher at the end of semester. 

Print-graphics 

1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 

II semester 

Objective: studying manual printing techniques for creative work. 

Subject includes introductory course to printing art; using the printing press, understanding the nature of 

printing and peculiarity of proof. 

Content : 1. monotype technique, 

2. monoprint technique 

3. cutting technique. 

Grading at the end of semester by department commission. 

General form study 

4 CP / 6 ECTS 

I and II semester 

Objective: Composition is subject to several rules, studying and using of which is often inevitable in 

creative work. Objective is to provide basic knowledge of composition and also to 

develop spatial thinking through practical work. 

Content: Organisation of surface, character of figures, relations, rhythm, proportion, harmony, 

dimension, balance, contrast, dynamics. First tasks are given on a plain, later spatial. 

Composition with main attention on relations between mass and volume. Main principles 

and logic of construction. Analysis of geometrical basic forms and creation of new 

plastic figures on their basis. 

Method: tasks have theoretical-practical character. Specific practical tasks which cover the above 

mentioned themes are analysed during individual instruction. 

Tasks vary according to interests and abilities of students. 

Assessment: grading

Introduction to contemporary art 



Objective: To treat problems of contemporary art. 

Content: Although contemporary art is tightly connected with life around us and thus should be more 

directly understandable than classics, experience shows that it has always been more problematic to 

understand. 

Series of lectures meant for I year students introduces selection of works from 90s, from Estonia as well as 

from elsewhere, and tries on the basis of specific works, through their detailed analysis, to show their 

meaning, context and position on art map. 

Such method is not trying to give historical overview, but concentrates on single keywords, which should 

improve students’ orientation in art and provide basic concept apparatus for analysing and assessment of 

contemporary art. 

Separately treated themes: reference mechanisms characteristic to pop culture, situationist strategies, 

installation-specific problems, body and gender-specific art and psychoanalytical reference frames, design, 

space and environment specificity in contemporary art. Lecture course also provides basic view of 

institutional frames of contemporary art, e.g. students analyse different art journals and their aims. 

Method: series of lectures will end with independent written task, for which students select on the basis of 

videos from Estonian Centre of Contemporary Art one specific work of Estonian artist and write an essay 

on it (approximately 3 pages). 

Study practice 

3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Objective: 

Objective of summer practice in I course is to distance from ordinary working environment - school, to 

new environment - nature. To broaden the range of feelings of young creator, working with nature. 

Content: 

Practice takes place in summer base of the academy on Muhu island, Tamse village, being actually 

international painting camp where in addition to our students also students from Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, 

Russia, Poland and Sweden participate. Work is done according to common programme, which enables to 

get overview of the nature of painting cultures with different traditions and thereby broaden understanding 

of the student of possibilities and orientations of painting. 

Practice takes place in summer in nature and includes drawing, photographing and painting of nature, 

animals and people in “open air”, as well as tasks of performing art with documentation of result. 

Method: Practical work with individual instruction, discussions and analyses, reviews. 

Workshop 

1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 

II semester 

Intensive courses treat topics or techniques not covered by the curriculum elsewhere, but which are 

considered necessary from the standpoint of higher art education. 

LOCATION OF LINE STUDIES IN CURRICULUM 

I year 

I semester, subjects in hours per week

I introductory week VII-VIII independent work 

II-VI Painting 4 IX-XIIIn Painting 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Form study 4 Form study 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Calligraphy and figural graphics 2 Calligraphy and figural graphics 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Study of computer design programmes 3 Study of computer design programmes 3 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Introduction to contemporary art 2 Introduction to contemporary art 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

XIV w independent work, XV-XVII w examination 

II semester 

I-III w workshop 1CP/1.5ECTS IX-XI w independent work 

IV-VIII w Painting 4 XII-XVI w Painting 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Form study 4 Form study 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Print graphics 2 Print graphics 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Study of computer design programmes 3 Study of computer design programmes 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Introduction to contemporary art 2 Introduction to contemporary art 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Study practice 3 3CP/4.5ECTS 

XII-XX w seminars, examination 

GRAPHICS: SPECIALITY STUDY 

High relief print techniques 

II course I and II semester 

3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Objective: Study of manual print techniques for creative work. 

Study of all printing techniques of high relief procedure. Starting with engraving tasks with soft materials 

such as lino or plastics, followed by composition and engraving on board wood. Board wood printing is 

studied in Eastern (ukyo-e) as well as Western printing procedure. Single as well as multi-colour 

compositions are created in all mentioned materials. The course will end with filigree engraving - wood 

engraving. 

Content: 1. lino cut, 

2. board wood cut ukyo-e, 

3. board wood cut, 

4. wood engraving. 


Intaglio techniques 


3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Objective: Studying of manual intaglio techniques for creative work. 

In Western print art intaglio techniques have played essential role from the beginning of print art. There are 

many intaglio techniques and they have been constantly improved throughout the history until today. This 

curriculum covers six out of nine intaglio techniques generally taught in the department, starting with 

mechanical procedures and continuing with etching techniques. 

Content: 1. Dry point 

2. Carborundum 

3. Etching 

4. Reservage 

5. Aquatint 

6. Mezzotinto 

7. Vernis mou (workshop)

8. Copy etching (workshop) 

9. Photo etching (workshop) 


Lithography 


2 CP / 3 ECTS 

Objective: Study of flat printing technique for creative work. 

Lithography is the only flat printing technique in the curriculum, but all technical peculiarities are studied 

very thoroughly. 

Content: 1. Chalk litho 

2. China ink litho 

3. Colour litho 

4. Lithography with combined methods 

5. Litho with copy transfer 


Photography 


3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Objective: Studying photography for creative work. 

Contemporary graphic art is using constantly more camera as well as any other photo equipment. 

Photography can be treated as drawing with light. At the same time photo image can be processed and 

reproduced as any other graphics. This course provides basic knowledge of classical photography, 

connecting it with specificity of the speciality of graphics and contemporary art. Tasks are completed by 

means of digital as well as classical cameras in studio and in nature. 


Digital graphics 

II and III course I and II semester 

7 CP / 10.5 ECTS 

Objective: Use of digital technique and computer design programmes for creative work. 

Subject of digital graphics extends through four semesters and includes several special courses, 

consolidating of which under the common name can be explained by the use of computer design 

programmes in each for achievement of results. 

Content of the course in the II year is realisation of projects of graphic fine art with digital tools. Final 

result would be print-outs of graphics made or improved by computer. Teaching the composition of 

graphic series. Most used programmes are Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Freehand and CorelDraw. 

In III year the study of several programmes enabling animation - Macromedia Director, Fireworks, Flash, 

Dreamviewer - are added and their use in realisation of course projects is taught. Projects are CD-ROMs of 

collections of graphic art pieces, presentation clips and presentation CDs. Use of digital camera plays 

important role in creation of that graphic material. The course will end with projects of web graphics. The 

programme of Adobe Premiere is added. 


Typography 


2 CP / 3 ECTS

Objective: Studying of type fonts for creative work. 

Typography course treats fonts from historical as well as modern aspect. Studying the character of more 

essential historical fonts and their usage possibilities today. The course lays stress on legibility of text and 

studying of optimal relations of text and background. Tasks of text composition and layout are given. 

Graphic fine art 

III course I and II semester 

6 CP / 9 ECTS 

Objective: Learning to create independent art projects. 

The course of graphic fine art is consolidated course taking account of the experiences of previous 

technical courses. Students can choose tools and materials for their course projects. Semester includes in 

most cases two projects, which include setting of concept and its defending before teacher and group 

members. After completion of project exposition or presentation and justification of work as well as 

analysis will take place with participation of group members and teachers. 


Book theory and history 

III course I semester 

2 CP / 3 ECTS 

Objective: Study of history and theory of a book for creative work. 

Theoretical treatment of all stages of bookmaking from paper to printing, folding and binding. The nature 

of a book folder is being studied, finding the rigt folder for specific type of publication is taught. Great 

attention is payed to the book layout, including construction of the book, calculation of print area, 

proportion of margins, use of illustrations, determination of font size and character, placement of 

references etc. The course includes practical tasks completed with layout programmes PageMaker and 

QuarkXPress. 

Book history part of the course concerns development of a book from the aspect of style changes, which 

were caused by changes or improvements in printing technique. Knowledge of the style of various stages 

of book history is essential for book designer of every period. 

Content of history course by themes: 

Roll books. 

Medieval manuscript book. 

Renaissance book. Incunabula. 

Baroque book. 

Rococo book. 

Classicist book. 

Romanticist book. William Morris. 

Jugendstil book. 

Art deco. 

Constructivist book. Bauhaus. 

Book before and after World War II. 

Modern book. 

Book in the East. 

History of Estonian book. 

Grading at the end of semester by the teacher. 

Boo 

k design 


6 CP / 9 ECTS

Objective: Study of bookdesign. 

The course stresses integral design of a book as multi-layer cultural object. All given tasks require first 

creation of a book layout, then composing the specific book elements. The base for the course is formed by 

printing workshop of the department and by the computer park with the layout programmes such as 

PageMaker, QuarkXPress, InDesign and design programmes: Photoshop, Freehand, Adobe Illustrator, 

CorelDraw. 

Topics: 

Design of a fiction book. Layout and design of fiction books from three different periods. 

Layout and design of a non-fiction book. 

Design and illustration of a children’s book. 

Journal design. 

Design of albums and monographs. 

Design of a poetry book. 


Polygraphy 


4 CP / 6 ECTS 

Objective: Studying the possibilities of mass printing, broadening the typographic knowledge. 

The course includes several shorter courses, the lengths of which may vary according to needs and 

possibilities. 

The course starts with lectures of printing history and peculiarities. More stress is laid on study of modern 

printing equipment. Visits are paid to printing offices. 

Separate course is held in production of accidence prints, study of compilation of high relief print forms 

and printing. 

Special course is held in creation of typographic book projects. Their aim is to develop typographic 

expression and broadening of typographic knowledge. 


Exhibition project 

III course II semester 

3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Objective: Studying the exhibition arrangement, creation of exhibition concepts, free creation. 

The course will give the future artist some experience in public speaking and exposition of his/her works, 

also knowledge of art management. The course starts with concept setting and discussion on actual topics. 

Both group and personal projects are possible. Reservations of time and place of the exhibition are made 

with a gallery, followed by preparation and exposition of exhibits. Final analysis and discussion will take 

place. Discussion involves also experts outside the academy. 


History of graphic art 


1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 

Objective: the general history of the speciality. 

The last theory subject of B.A. programme is history course summarizing the entire field of graphic art. 

The programme of art history of the world does not include remarkable information about the history of 

specific art types. Thus, in spite of the fact that studies of a book and graphic techniques treat relevant 

history rather thoroughly, also conclusive course is needed. Studying Estonian graphic art in funds of 

relevant museums and libraries forms great part of the course. 

Teacher will assess knowledge of the students.

Study practice 

II course II semester. 

3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Study practice of II year is related to print-graphics and takes place in a design company or editorial office. 

Result will be graded by department commission. 

Workshops 

II and III course II semester 

2 CP / 3 ECTS 

Intensive courses treat additional fields or techniques not included in the obligatory courses. Workshops 

enable to invite teachers outside the academy and from abroad. 

Teacher will assess the results. 

Portfolio 


3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 

Portfolio will end B.A.speciality studies in the department. Student will start to collect and record material 

for portfolio already in first B.A. year. However, final composition of portfolio is started in winter 

workshop week in 3 rd year with selection, scanning and saving creative material into computers of the 

department and CDs. At the end of semester presentation CD-ROM will be made of collected and added 

works with computer programmes Microsoft PowerPoint or Macromedia Director. Finally the paperportfolio 

will also be composed, which includes personal data, list of expositions and performances, 

reproductions or photos of works and CD-ROM content illustrated with small frames. Together with 

portfolio also a set (up to 6 works) of original graphics will be submitted to the commission for assessment. 

Assessment by academy commission. 

CYCLE STUDY OF THE SPECIALITY OF GRAPHICS 

II academic year 

III semester 

I introductory week VII-VIIIw independent work 

II-VIw High relief techniques 4 IX-XIIIw High relief techniques 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Intaglio techniques 4 Intaglio techniques 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Lithography 2 Lithography 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Photography 4 Photography 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Typography 2 Typography 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Digital graphics 4 Digital graphics 4 2CP/3ECTS 

XIVw independent work, XV-XVIIw examinations 

IV semester 

I-III w Workshop 1CP IX-XI w independent work 

IV-VIIIw High relief techniques 3 XII-XVIw High relief techniques 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Intaglio techniques 3 Intaglio techniques 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Lithography 3 Lithography 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Photography 3 Photography 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Typography 3 Typography 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Digital graphics 3 Digital graphics 2 1CP/1.5ECTS

XII-XXw seminars, examination 

Study practice 3w 3CP/4.5ECTS 

III academic year 

V semester 


II-VIw Graphic fine art 6 IX-XIIIn Graphic fine art 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Bookdesign 6 Bookdesign 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Book theory and history 4 Book theory and history 4 2CP/3ECTS 

Polygraphy 4 Polygraphy 4 2CP/3ECTS 



VI semester 

I-IIIw Workshop 1CP IX-XIw independent work 

IV-VIIIw Graphic fine art 6 XII-XVIw Graphic fine art 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Bookdesign 6 Bookdesign 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 


Polygraphy 4 Polygraphy 4 2CP/3ECTS 

History of grpahics 2 History of graphics 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Exhibition project 6 Exhibition projects 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Portfolio 3n 3CP/4.5ECTS 

SPECIALITY OF PAINTING BA 

SPECIALITY SUBJECTS II academic year 

Portrait painting course 

2CP /3 ECTS 

II year I semester 

Objective: Studying of human being as art object. 

Content: 

The most important detail - head. Beside form, the course also deals with expression-character. Portrait, not 

only depiction of specific person, but assignment of wider art meaning. Portrait as independent art object, 

symbol. 

Method: 

Work with models under individual instruction. Independent work with task and final analysis. 

Figure painting course 


II year I semester. 

Objective: To broaden depiction skills of human being, attention on meaning of costume and pose. Parade 

portrait as possible depiction form in modern art. 

Content: Work with model, who is not just object of imitation, but student must have attitude towards 

him/her, giving to his/her work clear art value 

Method: Use of model. Student will set final task, providing works with content and meaning. Teacher will 

consult, analyse and inspire student at search of new solutions. 

Nude painting studio course I

2 CP / 3 ECTS 

II year II semester. 

Objective: To teach through painting of nude human body from one side solution of complicated form 

problems, from the other side to open new possibilities in depiction of human. 

Content: The course treats form problems, studying first details of nude human body. Main attention is 

paid on capture of correct form, its depiction in style chosen by the student. 

Method: Constant work with models, whereby role of the teacher is to correct formal correctness of the 

depicted and discuss task set by the student, analyse it and help the student to remain in chosen line. 

Nude painting studio course II 

3 CP / 4.5 ECTS 


Objective: To practise depiction of complicated poses, broadening painting skills. Movement from form 

problems to essential side of a work of art. Ability to see together various form, light, colour and essential 

fields and effect of various stresses on picture. 

Content: Work with model plus creation of own composition on given topic. 

Method: Practical work with individual instruction. Discussion and analysis. 

Fresco and secco techniques 

1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 

II year I semester 

Objective: To introduce peculiarities of two mural techniques, technical methods and provide first 

experience in work in those techniques. 

Content: Painting of large-scale copy of mural painting in fresco or secco technique, chosen from art 

history, in given space. Attention is paid on technical correctness and analysis of mutual relations and 

impacts of painting and room. 

Method: Practical work in material and individual instruction. Analysis and discussion. 

Sgrafito 

1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 

II year I semester. 

Objective: To provide overview and experience in recognition of nature and peculiarity of technique. 

Content: Planning and realisation of composition in different formats, whereby starting point is the analysis 

of peculiarity of room (purpose, lighting, size etc.) and creation of corresponding work. 

Method: Individual instruction in practical work, analysis and discussion. 

Glass painting techniques (tin stained glass, tiffany, melting) 

1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 


Objective: To open nature and peculiarity of glass painting techniques, to introduce technical methods of 

three techniques and provide primary experience in work with them. 

Content: To make copy of work selected from art history in tin stained glass technique, whereby the work 

must include paintings. To complete according to own plan two small-scale works, one in tiffany and the 

other in melting technique. 


Creative course of glass painting technique

1 CP / 1.5 ECTS 


Objective: To study situation, where creation of work of art depends on its location, how room and light 

are basis for work of art. 

Content: To create work in glass painting technique in given room. Practical realisation is preceded by 

making of drafts and their discussion and analysis. Attention also on execution and presentation of drafts. 


Painting technique and technology A 

2 CP / 3 ECTS 

II year I and II semester. 

Two essential problems of painting are from one side casually formed ideas and concepts and from the 

other side non-elaborated use of material. Together they produce aesthetically raw, poorly preserving and 

hardly exposable work. The course observes development of technology and methods of painting 

technique through centuries and possibility to use those experiences today. 

Objective: To introduce importance of the problem and give instructions for the use of right technology 

and materials. 

Content: The course includes theoretical and practical part. 

Theory: overview of art history, various base materials, suitability of idea and material, preparation of 

bases for painting, colour and its use. Copy, quote, replica. 

Practice: preparation of base - different methods of preparation of traditional and modern base; analysis of 

personal creative use of material; selection of base; base frame; treatment of base according to the goal of 

painting. Painting of academic portrait (idea, search, sketch, realisation). Painting of copy (various 

schemes, use of material, idea search, realisation, goal). 

Method: Lecture. Individual instruction with practical work, independent work. Discussion and analysis. 

Summer practice 3CP / 4.5 ECTS 

In summer after second year 

Objective: To provide students with experience in independent creative work, from the development of 

idea and collection of material to completion of work. 

Content: First half of practice includes studying of task given by the teacher through analysing and search 

of solutions, collection of material (painting studies, drawings, photo, video, ready-made items etc.). After 

that the collected material is selected and grouped according to the principle of compliance with topic. 

Second half of practice includes final creation of work, its analysis and assessment. 

Method: Lectures, consultations, discussions. Instruction of practical work and independent work. Analysis 

and assessment of result. 

Workshop. 1CP / 1.5 ECTS 

SPECIALITY SUBJECTS III ACADEMIC YEAR 

Abstract painting 

6 CP (3+3) / 9 ECTS 

III year I semester. 

Objective: to give practical experience in non-figurative and abstract art, open wide spectrum of 

possibilities and problems of abstract painting and surpass possible barriers of taste and prejudices. 

Content: The course is divided into two 5-week cycles. First cycle includes painting of five abstract 

paintings proceeding from different principles, using very varying painting rules, e.g. expressive,

geometric, experimental, minimalist, pattern etc. 

Second cycle - staged devices, situations and set tasks are solved in different styles, according to problem 

specified by student. Non-figurative painting. 

Method: Explanatory lectures, practical independent work, consultations, individual instructions of 

practical painting process, analysis and discussion. 

Creative course of nude painting 

6CP (3+3) / 9 ECTS 

III year II semester. 

Objective: Main attention is paid on development of creativity, basing on a complicated, but interesting 

part of depiction of human - nude body. Here form problems give way to content issues. 

Content: The course is divided into two 5-week cycles; in the first cycle model is used, but only as tool, 

and in second cycle work is concentrated on solution of more conceptual tasks without model, using photo, 

reproductions etc. 

Method: Painting in studio on the basis of given tasks, consultations, independent work, search of material, 

analysis and discussion. 

Mosaic technique 

2CP / 3 ECTS 


Objective: to provide experience in mosaic technique and analyse peculiarity and effect of that technique 

(entirely new value of used material). 

Content: making of copy or its detail after original chosen from art history. Work analysis. 

Method: Individual instruction during practical work. 

Combined mosaic techniques 

2CP / 3 ECTS 


Objective: to develop creativity in combination of different technical methods and materials. 

Content: Creation of work of art in mosaic technique into given room, consisting of three or more modules. 

One module must be realised in traditiona mosaic technique, other modules seek new materials and 

working methods, whereby all three modules must form integral work of art. 


Composition course of mural or glass painting techniques 

6CP / 9 ECTS 

III year II semester. 

Objective: To pass the process of creation of work of art into specified room from the formation of idea, 

making of plans, their defending and communication with the client to the completion of work. 

Content: Creation of work of art into specified room, using mural or glass painting techniques. Analysis of 

room. Work is started from making of drafts, their execution and defending. Further work is realised in 

material. 

Method: Individual instruction during practical work. Discussions and analysis. 

Painting technique and technology B 

4 CP / 6 ECTS 

III year I and II semester

Objective: To continue introduction of necessary traditional technical methods and their practical use. 

Content: Introduction and practical trial of technical methods and painting styles of masters from art 

history. Depiction of man, figure as object in space, nude form as object and subject, depiction of 

movement. 

Method: Work in technique used by concrete artists, analysis. Work in studio with models, individual 

instruction, independent work. Discussion, assessment. 

Workshop 


III year II semester 

Portfolio 3CP / 4.5 ECTS 

CYCLE STUDY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PAINTING 


III semester 


II-VIw Portrait painting 5w, 2CP/3ECTS IX-XIIIw Figure painting 5w 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Fresco and secco techniques 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS Sgrafito technique 5w. 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Painting technique and technology A 5w. Painting technique and technology A 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS 


IV semester 

I-III w Workshop 1CP/1.5ECTS IX-XI w independent work 

IV-VIIIw Nude painting studio I, 5w. 2CP/3ECTS XII-XVIw Nude painting studio II, 5w. 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Glass painting techniques: tin stained glass, tiffany, Creative course of glass painting technique 5w. 

melting 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS 

1CP/1.5ECTS 

Painting technique and technology A 5w. Painting technique and technology A 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS 


XII-XXw seminars, examinations 


V semester 


II-VIw Abstract painting 5w. 3CP/4.5ECTS IX-XIIIw Abstract painting 5w. 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Nude painting creative course 5w. Nude painting creative course 5w. 3CP/4.5ECTS 

Mosaic technique 5w. 2CP/3ECTS Combined mosaic techniques 5w. 2CP/3ECTS 

Painting technique and technology B 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS Painting technique and technology B 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS 


VI semester 

I-IIIw Workshop 1CP IX-XIw independent work 

IV-VIIIw Nude painting creative course 5w. XII-XVIw Nude painting creative course 5w. 

3CP/4.5ECTS 

Composition of mural or glass painting techniques 5w. Composition of mural or glass painting techniques 5w. 

3CP/4.5ECTS 

3CP/4.5ECTS 

Painting technique and technology B 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS Painting technique and technology B 5w 1CP/1.5ECTS

Portfolio 3w 3CP/4.5ECTS 

SPECIALITY OF SCULPTURE BA 

SHORT DESCRIPTIONS OF SPECIALITY SUBJECTS 

Font study 

Study load: 1 CP/ 1.5 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: IV semester. 

Objective: To acquire formation system basing on font logic and broaden compositional thinking. 

Content: Essential relation with speciality composition. First, with applied fields of sculpture, such as 

labels, medals, monument texts. Second, possibilities to create works being independent sculptures basing 

on font logic. 

Method: Construction of antiqua and grotesque font, composition, tasks of font optics first on plane 

surface, then in relief. Second half of the course stresses more free self-expression and greater spatiality, 

finding of three-dimensionality proceeding from architecture of a letter, as mass-volume as well as spatial 

line composition. 

Basics of composition 


Location in curriculum: III semester 

Composition as creation is subject to several rules, which studying and use is often inevitable in creative 

work. 

Objective: to provide basic knowledge of composition and through practical work a tool for spatial 

thinking. 

Distribution by semesters: 

Organisation of surface, character of figures, relations, rhythm, proportion, harmony, 

dimension, balance, contrast, dynamics. 

First works on plane, later spatial. 

Composition with main attention on relation of mass and volume. Main principles and logic of 

construction. Analysis of basic geometric figures and creation of new ones on their basis. 

Form theory. Physical and biological rules of the formation of natural form. Form quality. Composition 

with unstable materials. Spatial composition. Problems of space and volume. Spatial characters, relations 

of time and space, kinetic sculpture. 

The course is tightly connected with speciality composition, but also with colour study and perception 

psychology. 

Method: theoretical-practical work. Specific practical tasks covering the mentioned themes find analysis 

through individual instruction. 

Tasks vary according to interests and abilities of students. 

Different tasks are set with 5-week cycles. 

History of sculpture 



Objective: to treat problems of XX century sculpture

Content: Lecture course of the problems of XX century sculpture will pass basic themes of XX century 

sculpture. 

Selection of names and themes treated in this lecture cycle: 

1) Auguste Rodin & Medardo Rosso 

New plastic values, modelling exchange, movement of form; 

Myth of originality in avant-garde art (Rosalind Krauss) 

2) Aristide Maillol, Henry Moore, Vera Muhhina; Arno Becker; 

Various views of the problems of neoclassicism. 

3)Picasso 

Modern primitives; from African masks to synthetic cubism. 

4) Duchamp, Arman, Mona Hatoum, Dan Wolgers 

From ready-made "Fountain" to neodada and implementation of ready-made in hte sculpture of the end of 

XX century. 

5) Rod˛enko, Tatlin, Naum Gabo, Mark di Suvero 

Utopist plans of Russian constructivism and traces of constructivism in post-war form language of urban 

sculpture. 

6) Alberto Giacometti 

From surrealist object to post-Auschwitz human figure. 

7) Donald Judd, Robert Morris; James Turrell; Michael Heizer 

From strict examples of minimalism to arte povera and land art; deconstruction of expression, industrial 

form language on landscape 

8) Kosuth, Lawrence Weiner; Martin Creed, Gavin Turk 

Problems of conceptualism. 

9) Claes Oldenburg, Edward Kienholz, Christo Duane Hanson, Jeff Koons 

Development of pop-art in sculpture from radicals of 60s through hyperrealism of 70s to camp and neopop 

of 90s 

10) Joseph Beuys 

Social sculpture, Neue Freie Akademie in Düsseldorf, performance elements in sculpture. 

11) Richard Serra, Rachel Whiteread 

Sculpture in capitalist urban space, examples: Serra "Arc" (Rosalin Deutsche) and Whiteread "House". 

Lecture will end with written examination. 

Classical form study 

Study load: 17 CP (4+3+5+5) / 25.5 ECTS 

Location in curriculum: III, IV, V and VI semester 

Objective: to provide students with basics of classical form study and modelling skills. 

Content: practical modelling tasks using model. 

Portrait and figure. Stress on construction and anatomy. 

Nude and prtrait studio in round plastics and relief. Form generalisation and deformation. Free, individual 

interpretation of figure, stress on plastic values. 

Method: studio under instruction and independent work. Task setting from simple to complicated; 

transition from geometric form to organic form. 

Assessment and criticism at the end of each task. 

Different tasks are set in 5-week cycles. 

Technology of sculpture 


Location in curriculum: V and VI semester 

Objective - to provide information of physical-mechanical, plastic and decorative qualities of materials 

used in sculpture, as well as technical equipment and technological process. 

Content - the course starts with introduction of simple materials (clay, wax, plaster, plasticine), tools and 

equipment. Plaster casting. Finishing and toning of plaster. Artificial stone and concrete sculpture, forming 

technology and processing methods, various wood species as sculptural material. Rocks as sculptural

material. Classification and material of rocks, sedimentary rocks, igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks, 

processing technology. Metals as sculptural materials. Bronze and cast iron - casting technology, finishing. 

Sheet metals and their technology. Other materials and technologies used in sculpture; plastics, resins, 

powder metals, galvano-technique. Non-traditional materials used in sculpture: water, snow, glass, textile 

etc. 

Method - lectures and practical work in material. 

Different tasks are set in 5-week cycles. 

Creative practice 


Location in curriculum: IV semester 

Content: concrete casting into plaster and wooden forms, dolomite cutting; studying of punctuation, use of 

tools and equipment. Creation of dolomite, marble or wood sculpture. Bronze casting into plaster forms, 

iron casting into earth forms. Metal welding techniques. Creation of objects of non-traditional materials. 

Method: practical tasks in concrete material, instructed by the teacher, conducted as international 

symposiums or workshops, if possible. 

Assessment: on the basis of practical tasks. 

Basics of architecture 


Location in curriculum III and IV semester 

Content: relations of monumental art (sculpture) with architecture as construction art. Introduction of 

architectural creation as a process; studying of main constructions and materials; reading of project 

documentation; studying of main styles and creation of famous architects. Basics of architectural 

composition. 

Method: lectures; work with literature; compositions on a given theme, with revision of works and 

instruction. 

SPECIALITY OF SCULPTURE: CYCLE STUDY 


III semester 

Hours per week 


II-VI w IX-XIIIw 

Basics of composition 8 Basics of composition 8 4CP/6ECTS 

Basics of architecture 2 Basics of architecture 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Classical form study (head modelling) 8 Classical form study 8 4CP/6ECTS 

History of sculpture 2 History of sculpture 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 


IV semester 

I-III w Workshop 1CP /1.5ECTS IX-XI w independent work 

IV-VIIIw XII-XVIw 

Basics of architecture 2 Basics of architecture 2 1 CP/1.5ECTS 

Font study 2 Font study 2 1CP/1.5ECTS 

Classical form study 6 Classical form study 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 

History of sculpture 2 History of sculpture 2 1CP/1.5ECTS

XII-XXw seminars, examinations 



V semester 


II-VI w IX-XIIIw 

Classical form study 10 Classical form study 10 5 CP/7.5ECTS 

Environmental art 8 Environmental art 8 4CP/6ECTS 

Sculpture technology 6 Sculpture technology 6 3CP/4.5ECTS 


VI semester 

I-IIIw Workshop 1CP/1.5ECTS IX-XIw independent work 

IV-VIIIw XII-XVIw 

Classical form study 10 

Environmental art 10 Classical form study 10 5CP/7.5ECTS 

Sculpture technology 8 Environmental art 10 5CP/7.5ECTS 

Sculpture technology 8 4CP/6ECTS 

Portfolio 3w 3CP/4.5ECTS 

CERTIFIED 

I Vice Rector of EAA 

Lylian Meister “ “ Feb. 2002 

APPROVED 

Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts of EAA 

Prof. Jaak Arro “ “ Feb. 2002 

Head of the Department of Academic Affairs of EAA 

Kaire Rannik “ “ Feb. 2002

Fine Art - Eesti Kunstiakadeemia / Estonian Academy of Arts

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