Art & Art History
Department

Art 312: Advanced Photography       back to courses index

Colby Caldwell 

This advanced class is intended to expand skills and understanding surrounding the photographic medium.  Students will be advancing their skills in silver black and white photography, as well as expanding into non-tradition methods of image making, including the Digital Darkroom. Students will also investigate if digital tools are useful in their own practice.  This course is intended to aid each person in developing their own artistic voice, to investigate and position themselves in the world that surrounds them.  Students are encouraged to search both outwardly in culture and inwardly in themselves in order to create with sensitivity towards their subjects.  Students will also learn more about the art of the critique and discourse within a group.  Through first hand exercises, viewing of original work, speaking with visiting artists, and additional readings, students will engage contemporary issues dealing with photography and it’s place in the contemporary scene.  Questions such as what is meant by “constructed images” and “verity of the photographic image” will be discussed and debated.  Each student will also be required to make an oral presentation on one artist they have researched and have an affinity towards.  Although we meet as a class only 5 hours a week, expect to spend at least this much time a week outside of class to complete assignments.  Class time will be used as an arena for the exchange of ideas in regard to your work, as well as time to hone your technical skills.