Course Description
More than ever, advanced digital technologies have increased the possibilities to use photographic processes to produce works aimed for public display, outside the confines of established art institutions. Since the 1980s, artists including Dennis Adams, Shimon Attie, Felix Gonzalez-Torez, Alfredo Jaar, Barbara Kruger, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, Krzysztof Wodiczko, Janet Zweig and others have used photography as a medium for public art. Such works range in emphasis from socially conscious and political, to conceptual, to formal. We will consider the broadest range of possibilities for public photography, including (but not limited to) billboards, bus shelters, public projection, mail art, sticker campaigns, Flickr, YouTube, etc. Discussions of readings, slide lectures, and technical workshops will augment the assignments, and will address issues raised by public art, site specificity, and photography as a medium for popular culture.
Course Objectives
Students in this advanced workshop will produce photographically-based artworks that intend public space to be their primary venue. Students will learn to think critically about the role of art in public space, and what it means to make art outside of established institutional structures. Students may use any photographically-based media for the projects, but are nevertheless expected to become familiar with some of the digital processes involved in the production of public photographic works. Several short assignments will lead to one open final assignment in which students will be free to create a public photographic work of their own choosing.
Attendance
Attendance is mandatory at every class meeting. Three absences will result in a failing grade. Three latenesses of 15 minutes or more (including returning late from break) will count as one absence.
Grading
Individual projects will not be graded. The semester grade is based on the following:
- attendance
- quality of work, including conceptualization, effort, and craftsmanship
- participation in critiques and discussions
- individual enthusiasm, growth, achievement
- completion of readings
At midterm, you will receive a "midterm report," assessing your progress in the course in the form of a letter grade and a written comment.