This spring offers exciting Special Topic Courses ranging from Landscape to Digital Art. Dana Fritz will teach Environment/Landscape/Photography, and Chris Irvin will offer both 3D Computer Graphics and Digital Art & 2D Animation, all open to UNL students with no experience required.
Special Topics: Environment/Landscape/Photography | ARTS 498/898
T/R 12:30-1:45 | Richards Hall 121
Instructor: Dana Fritz, Professor of Art
Environment/Landscape/Photography is a spring 2026 seminar course open to all students with an interest in environment, landscape, photography, and/or curatorial practice. In the course, students are encouraged to question their pre-conceived notions about landscape photography and specifically its intersection with environmental issues including the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and land use. Through assigned readings and student-led discussions and presentations, the (primarily American) history and contemporary practice of landscape photography are analyzed and deconstructed. The course culminates in a student curated exhibition of works from the Sheldon Museum of Art on campus that focus on themes from the course.
Special Topics: ARTS 291Q SPECIAL TOPS: DGTL ARTS 3D Computer Graphics
T/R 5:30-7:50 PM | Richards Hall 17
Instructor: Chris Irvin
Student Work Demo Reel
This course explores 3D computer graphics through modeling, texturing, and animation in Maxon Cinema 4D. Students will also learn lighting techniques, digital sculpting, and other methods for creating imagery and animations. Emphasizing artistic expression and experimentation, the course encourages students to explore creative approaches to 3D computer graphics while producing original work. By the end, students will have a foundation applicable to character modeling, motion graphics, graphic design, virtual reality, 3D printing, and other forms of new media art. No prior experience is required.
To enroll, contact Academic Advisor Sam Segrist at: ssegrist2@nebraska.edu
Student Work Demo Reel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpjycbED8Sk
Special Topics: THEA 291Q SPECIAL TOPS: DGTL ARTS Digital Art & 2D Animation
M/W 6:30-7:45 PM | Richards Hall 17
Instructor: Chris Irvin
Student Work Demo Reel
This course explores digital art and 2D animation, covering digital painting, drawing techniques, color theory, and concept art creation, alongside animation principles like keyframes, timing, and spacing. Students will use Procreate, Procreate Dreams, and Adobe After Effects while developing skills in character design, animation, storytelling, and world-building. Encouraging creativity and experimentation, the course provides a strong foundation in digital art tools, enabling students to create illustrations, concept art, animations, and short films. iPads, pencils, and licensed apps are provided.
To enroll, contact Academic Advisor Courtney Ring at: cring2@nebraska.edu
Student Work Demo Reel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aj_N1XpCp14&feature=youtu.be