Academic Programs

Photography:

The Photography program is structured to offer students a wide range of exposure to photographic techniques, alternative practices, digital imaging, and theoretical discourse. Beginning-level classes focus on camera and lens control and fine black-and-white printing. Participation in class discussions and critiques allows students to develop ways of responding constructively to other students' work, as well as their own. Students will learn to develop an informed approach to discussing art by reading selected critical essays which influence the creative process.

The darkroom facilities include film processing areas for all formats, a community darkroom with eighteen enlargers and an advanced room with seven enlarging spaces capable of handling 4x5 format, drying, matting and finishing areas. A computer lab, with a wide assortment of digital input and output devices, is also available.

Filmmaking:

The Filmmaking program allows students to create works using a variety of kinetic media. The main production courses are in filmmaking and video production with additional courses in related digital arts and photography. The curriculum encourages alternative forms and visions independent of the dominant paradigms of Hollywood and commercial television. It focuses on the mediamaker as an independent artist--yet the technical aspect of the program prepares the student for entry into careers in both independent and commercial arenas. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of production tools and genres to best prepare them for the variety of experiences ahead of them. Critical viewing skills are also emphasized, and students engage in critiques of professional and peer work on a regular basis.

Production equipment in the School of Art includes: Hi-8 and digital video equipment, analog and nonlinear edit stations, 16mm MOS and sync sound camera packages, bench and flatbed film editing, two computer animation workstations, two film animation stands, and a variety of field audio, lighting, and accessory equipment.

Video:

Students taking coursework in the Video program explore the technical, theoretical and conceptual foundations of video and audio forms through the use of non-traditional video. This program places strong emphasis on installation, performance, multi-channel projection and video for the computer and is designed to foster collaborations both within the arts and other academic disciplines such as engineering and computer science. Students will also approach concepts and practices in the creation of time-based media arts as well as topics such as digital image manipulation, web design, and multimedia authoring.