Architectural illustration: the advancement of light, shade and shadows knowledge with 3D digital technology

The transition from traditional graphics into computer graphics over the past decade has brought about a multitude of changes that graphics educators and other graphics professionals have had to address and incorporate. The ever evolving integration of computer aided design (CAD) in architecture and engineering have revolutionized the design and documentation process. In the graphic communication area, changes from layout and design to desktop publishing and interactive `new media´ design for CD-ROM and Web distribution are but a few of the changes graphic educators have to keep up with. One problem with new technology is computer graphics encompasses several components and areas, and some of these areas are not able to progress into technology as quickly as others. This paper gives an overview of the shades, shadows and perspective course at Purdue University and how it has evolved into an integrated 2D and 3D digital lighting and rendering illustration course