Illustration Tools and Techniques (Online) | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Illustration Tools and Techniques (Online)

Learn a variety of media and techniques to streamline the creative process, from ideating to final illustration projects.

Course description

Different illustration styles can be achieved through a variety of media, each with the ability to evoke emotion, convey information, and transform our culture. Learn trade techniques by completing exercises and projects using, pencil, ink, acrylic and gouache paints, and color pencil. Gain advice on how to build a portfolio and continue a creative practice in ways that are unique to personal interests.

This course can be taken towards the Illustration Certificate.

Open to students ages 18 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.

Class meeting details

This online course is asynchronous. There are no set class meeting times. Instead, the course is project-based, with 2 to 3 deadlines per week, and students can choose a time and place that works best for them to complete the work. Course activities may include readings, video demonstrations and tutorials, online discussions, projects, and critiques.
The instructor will have virtual office hours to answer questions and provide individualized feedback and guidance.

Prerequisites

Introduction to Illustration or equivalent experience. Previous drawing experience required.

Required materials

Supplies

  • Mixed Media paper, 11" x 14" or larger
  • Drawing pencils (2B-8B)
  • Tracing paper
  • India ink
  • Gouache paint (red, yellow, blue, white)
  • Acrylic paint (red, yellow, blue)
  • Ultra-matte medium
  • Brushes (large rectangle, large round, small round)
  • Colored pencils (set of 12)

Students are expected to spend up to approximately $100 on supplies in addition to tuition.

Hardware
A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access, a camera or scanner to capture and upload work.

Recommended Textbooks
Picture This: How Pictures Work, Molly Bang

Class resources

This class uses Canvas, MCAD’s learning management system. Please see the link for more information.

Class savings

Register on or before January 19 and save $25.
Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).
Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.

Register

Title
Non-credit Tuition
$600.00
Not Yet Open for Registration

Registration opens January 5.

  • Date:
    -
  • Time:
    Asynchronous
  • Day(s) of the week:
    Asynchronous
  • Ages:
    Open to students ages 18 and above.
  • Term:
    Spring 2026
  • Instructor: John Barlow
  • Location:
    Online
  • SKU:
    CSDE 9110 20 SP26

Prerequisites:

Introduction to Illustration or equivalent experience. Previous drawing experience required.