Cursos / 1º Ciclo / Faculty of Architecture and Arts :: Architecture ( Integrated Master)

FUNDAMENTOS DO DESENHO DE COMUNICAÇÃO - 2025/2026

2º curricular year
Semestralidade: 1st semester
ECTS: 5.5

Teachers

Leading Teacher: Prof. Doutor Jorge Amaral

Class type and School hours

Teórico-prática : 6 Horas

Teaching Language

Portuguese

Main Aims/Objectives

The Communication Design Fundamentals Curricular Unit aims to deepen the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous year, specifically in the exploration of more advanced techniques and in understanding spatial and volumetric representation. It also aims to develop the ability for critical and analytical observation of three-dimensional space.

Specific Aims/Objectives

Develop Composition: Organize graphic elements on paper in a balanced and expressive way.
Represent the Human Body: Draw the human figure in different postures, with special attention to simplified anatomy, proportions, and movement.
Master Perspective: Apply the principles of linear perspective (with 1 and 2 vanishing points) in various situations, including indoor and outdoor environments.

Skills to be acquired

Ability to correctly apply the principles of perspective to represent with minimal rigor and depth objects, interior and exterior spaces, and buildings from different viewpoints.
Understanding and mastering these representation systems for clarity in visualizing volumes and spatial relationships, frequently used in architectural space design.

Teaching Procedures

The coursework unfolds through a blend of practical and theoretical-practical sessions. In theoretical-practical classes, exercises will be introduced, along with the necessary themes and information to progress. Regular presentations and discussions of results will also take place. During practical classes, proposed exercises will be implemented and executed, then presented, analyzed, critiqued, and discussed, either in groups or individually.

Programme

The exercises will be progressive in terms of complexity, combining technical challenges with creative exploration.

Module 1: The Human Figure and Movement (Weeks 1-6)
Exercise 1.1: Observational Drawing of the Human Figure (Gestural and Contour)
Sessions with live models (short and long poses).
Focus on capturing the essence of movement and general proportions.
Materials: Charcoal, graphite.
Exercise 1.2: Simplified Anatomy and Structure
Study of skeletons and anatomical models (simplified).
Drawing of hands, feet, and faces from different angles.
Materials: Graphite, pen.
Exercise 1.3: Human Figure in Context
Drawing human figures placed in environments, interacting with objects.
Focus on proportion in relation to space.
Materials: Mixed media.

Module 2: The Representation of Space and Architecture (Weeks 7-14)
Exercise 2.1: Linear Perspective (1 and 2 Vanishing Points)
Drawing of geometric solids and simple objects in perspective.
Drawing of interiors (rooms, corridors) based on observation.
Drawing of exteriors (patios, buildings, paths, stairs) based on observation.
Exercise 2.2: Linear Perspective (1 and 2 Vanishing Points) with Human Figure.
Drawing of the human figure placed within the architectural space.

Evaluation Type

Attendance, class participation, technical and expressive mastery of graphic recording, observation and analysis skills, and understanding and application of representation principles will be taken into account.
Continuous assessment will also include two individual tests (50%) and the submission of practical exercises (50%), according to the academic calendar. The fundamental institutional assessment moments will also be fulfilled: the Midterm Exam and the Final Exam (100%).

Teaching Resources

To achieve the required objectives and competencies, the following didactic resources will be used:
Specialized bibliography available in the Lusíada University media library and library.
Indication of fundamental texts for learning and completing practical exercises.
Visual Resources: Use of examples of relevant artists´ works, videos, and other visual resources to illustrate concepts and inspire students.

Sustainability Objectives

Make communities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The three pillars of sustainability in architectural space design: economic, environmental, and social dimensions.
Critical Thinking: Develop students ability to question existing practices, critically evaluate design solutions, and adopt an ethical and responsible stance in their design choices.

Keywords

Representation
Human figure
Architectural space

Main Bibliography

Complementary Bibliography