AUBURN – For the first time in its history, Central Maine Community College will offer a course in 3-D Design beginning Jan. 12 and running through May 12.

It is a studio course that explores the conceptual process of design as applied to the three-dimensional form. The purpose is to understand and practice the aesthetic elements of three-dimensional design, so that there is balance, fluidity and effective use of color, media, perspective and texture.

Students will have assignments focusing on different aspects of design and will work on a variety of projects in three dimensions, including sculpture with various media – clay, wood, paper, fiber and “found” objects.

It is a standard foundation course for anyone who wants to pursue study of the arts; participants should have some background in design or art.

Three-D Design (ART 102-01) will meet from 3:50 to 5:30 p.m. Mondays and 2 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays. The cost is $258, plus books and supplies.

“We have greatly expanded the number of courses available in art and literature in the past year or two and we intend to keep offering these opportunities – not just to our students, but to the community at large. This is a role community colleges around the country play,” said Lucinda Coombs, chairwoman of the CM Humanities Department.

In addition to 3-D Design, the college will offer Approaches to Art (ART 150-21), which provides students with a basic understanding of the visual arts, from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

For more information or to register contact the college at 207/755-5100 or 1-800/891-2002.