Art/Image/Technoculture

An elective critical studies course designed to look at art and culture in light of new technologies.

Course description:

This course will investigate the cultural implications of living in a technological society, in particular how it has influenced the art-making process. We will look at both historical and contemporary trends through readings, screenings and class discussions. An effort will be made to experience works first hand whenever possible.

The course will be divided into two main sections. The first will be a survey of art and experiments with technology from the camera lucida and early photography to networked art. The second part will explore special topics related to current intermedia practice.

Students will combine both theory and practice in relationship to this engaging topic. Emphasis will be placed on research as a foundation for both critical writing and art making.

Students will be expected to write several brief response papers related to the readings, screenings and class discussions. Among other studio projects, they will collaborate on an experimental hypertext or hypermedia project. Both papers and studio projects will require critical thinking and the synthesis of ideas as they relate to art and technology.