New Media in Art • ART 240 (FIST 240)

Fall Term I 2018 • Monday & Wednesday 8:30-12:00 • Hurvis 013

http://www.digitalprocesses.blogspot.com
Instructor: John Shimon, Associate Professor of Art
Email: shimonj@lawrence.edu (best way to reach me outside of class)
Office: Wriston Art Center 109
Office Hours: Tuesdays 10-12 AM.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
An introduction to the digital world within a fine art context. Digital photography, experimental video, sound, photo book
design, and blogging are covered as students use the Internet as a venue for projects. The evolution of technology, new
media theory, contemporary art discourse, and visual culture are examined through projects, readings, lectures,
demonstrations, discussions, critiques, and visiting artist presentations. Mac-based. (6 units). PREREQUISITE: ART
100 or ART 110. Limit 14.

LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):

1. Create finished digital works or digital documentation of time-based works using an iMac, digital still and video
cameras, PhotoShop, Premiere, and GarageBand as art-making tools.
2. Explore art theory and practice while considering how artists have used emerging and new media since the
mid-20th century, including electronic instruments, sound recording, film and the curious role of performance.
3. Analyze the ongoing proliferation of technology, information, and images while considering how the evolution
of these technologies have altered perceptions of time, daily life, human experience, and memory.
4. Develop strategies for negotiating the ever-changing digital environment.

CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION:

1. Projects (60%): Complete 8 projects with No. 1-4 worth 5% each and No. 5-8 worth 10% each.
Projects must reflect your creative, in-depth investigation of new media and related debates, and the
development of digital skills. Projects must be finished along with a blog post reflecting on your
project illustrated by hyperlinks, images, video clips, and quoting/responding to the assigned readings with
comments posted on 2 classmate blogs by the beginning of the class they’re due. Late Projects
receive a lowered grade for each class meeting they’re late (e.g. an A gets lowered to a B if 1 class
late, to a C if 2 classes late, etc.).
2. Reflection Blog Posts (10%): Write 2 250-word blog posts on assigned/required artist
lectures worth 5% each. Reflections will be graded √+ (A), √ (B), √- (C). Jot down notes to remind you
of points you found most compelling. Your post must analyze how the artist presents issues related to
their work and how their work relates to issues covered in this course along with comments posted on 2
classmates blogs. Late posts receive a lowered grade (see above).
3. Attendance (15%): Attend and be on time for ALL class meetings and PAY ATTENTION as a great
deal of material is covered rapidly. Only ONE excused absence is allowed. Email instructor in
advance of missing a class indicating reason and how you will handle missed class
work. NOTE! Working at a computer during discussions, leaving the lab more than once per class,
texting, gaming, facebooking, emailing, arriving late or leaving early will cause you to be marked
absent for the day. Repeated absences and habitual lateness adversely affect your attendance grade
(e.g. an A gets lowered to a B if two (2) absences, to a C if three (3) absences, etc.).
4. Participation (15%): Participate in discussions and contribute to the ongoing dialog. Your ability to
help others, lead a discussion, articulate your ideas, and define your own work is important.
5. Honor Code: Please reaffirm the LU Honor Code in writing with submitted projects.

MATERIALS REQUIRED:
1. Book (required): The Medium is the Massage by Marshall McLuhan and Quentin Fiore
(Gingko Press, 2001, $13.95, PB/ISBN 978-1584230700). Available at the campus bookstore (or online).
2. USB External Drive (required): LaCie or Sea Gate for storing/editing video and still images. Check
Target, Best Buy, amazon.com for best prices (1 TB about $50).
3. Headphones with 1/8” mini-plug (required): Conventional light-duty or heavy-duty noise canceling.
4. Smart Phone projects encouraged.

HURVIS 013 & WRISTON iMAC LABS:

1. LAB ACCESS: You will have access to 2 digital labs except for times used by other courses. LU student ID
card will be activated and a building pass provided for term. Hurvis 013 and the Wriston Digital lab have 24/7
swipe card access.
2. APPLICATIONS: Labs are equipped with: Adobe CS (Photoshop, InDesign, etc.), Premiere, Mac iLife
(GarageBand, iMovie, iDVD), and Microsoft PowerPoint (PPTX).
3. HARDWARE: HURVIS LAB: 15-iMac computers, B/W HP laser printer, and M-Audio Midi keyboards.
WRISTON LAB: 3-iMacs, Wacom drawing pad, 3-Epson scanners (scans film/reflective art up to 13x17”),
Epson photo quality inkjet printer, Roland vinyl cutter. An Epson 44” wide-format photo quality inkjet printer
is available for advanced work.
4. CAMERAS/CAMCORDERS/VR GOGGLES: Canon Digital SLRs, Sony NEXs, VR gear and tripods
available for check out via Siso.
5. EDITSHARE MEDIA SERVER: 1 TB storage space for class video and audio projects.
6. LAB ETIQUETTE: Maintain good group situation work habits. Be considerate of other students/faculty
using facilities by turning off your cell phone, using headphones when editing sound/viewing video. No
eating/drinking near keyboards! Leave your workstation clean!

Makerspace and 3D Printing:

The main purpose of the Makerspace is for Lawrence students to gain hands-on learning experiences and have the
opportunity to develop a concept from an idea to a physical object.
http://guides.lib.lawrence.edu/content.php?pid=676795&sid=5609996

INFO/RESOURCES:
1. Hardware/Software Educational Discounts: (10% off Macs and 50% or more off software)
http://www.lawrence.edu/dept/ITS/services/purchases.shtml
2. Supplies Locally: MURRAY PHOTO for cameras (10 College, 920-733-5885, murrayphoto.com),
COMPUTER WORLD for Mac accessories (3015 W. Wisconsin, 920-733-9547), TARGET for cameras,
external drives, media (target.com, 4301 W. Wisconsin, 920-731-5566)
3. Supplies Online: Adorama for equipment & supplies (800-223-2500 adorama.com), eBay for used
equipment, props (ebay.com), APPLE STORE for Mac accessories, drives (800-692-7753 apple.com), B&H
PHOTO VIDEO for cameras, etc. (800-221-5743 bhphotovideo.com).
4. Services Online: FLICKR.COM for sharing images, YOUTUBE.COM for sharing videos,
GOTPRINT.COM for post cards, BLURB.COM for print on demand pro books,
SOUNDCLOUD.COM for sharing sound, and ZAZZLE.COM for cards, posters, and merch.
5. Art Info Online: newsgrist.typepad.com, artfagcity.com, artnet.com, wired.com
6. Technique/Technical Info Online: luminous-landscape.com, kenstone.net, mediacollege.com
7. Mudd Library Periodicals (Level A): Art Calendar, Art in America, Art Forum, Art News, Bust, Flash Art.
8. Academic Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: Students who have a disability
covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act are entitled to academic accommodations. Students must
initiate all requests. Please contact the Office of Student Academic Services (ext. 6530) for info and advice.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
• Ai Weiwei’s Blog by Ai Weiwei (MIT, 2011)
• Cut: Film as Found Object by Stefano Basilico (2004)
• The Photograph as Contemporary Art by Charlotte Cotton (2004)
• The Americans by Robert Frank (1958)
• Looking In: Robert Frank’s The Americans by Sarah Greenough (2009)
• The Medium is the Massage by Marshall McLuhan (current and vintage volumes)
• The Films of Kenneth Anger by Kenneth Anger (DVD set 2007)
• Brakhage by Brakhage Volume 1 and 2 (DVD, 2004, 2010)
• William Wegman Video Works 1970-1999 by William Wegman (DVD, 2006)
 ART 240 – NEW MEDIA IN ART
COURSE CALENDAR + PROJECTS
“Look out honey, ‘cause I’m using technology.
Ain’t got time to make no apology…”
--Iggy Pop, Search and Destroy, 1973

WEEK 1:

SEPT 12 INTRODUCTION OF COURSE: Surveys, prerequisite check, introductions of students and

(W) instructor(s), syllabus (note key dates), required book, and external drive.
COLLABORATING WITH DIGITAL INVENTORS PPTX: Think about your “collaboration”
with digital innovators: DOUG ENGELBART: Stanford Research Institute’s 12/9/1968 “Mother of all
Demos” showing networked computers as a way to improve “the effectiveness of intellectual workers” to
“share knowledge” and “improve the lot of the human race.” The mouse, video-conferencing, hyperlinks, and
digital text editing shown for the first time. STEVE WOZNIAK: Inventor of the Apple computer. TED
NELSON: Demonstration of Xanadu space. TIM BERNERS-LEE: Inventor of the world wide web.
DISCUSSION: Evolution of technology since mid-century. Smartphone as new TV, text as new voice,
pictures as new text, etc.
MAC OVERVIEW: Review iMac and dock (including “download folder” and “Launchpad”), open
applications to be used in class (PhotoShop, Premiere, Garageband), locate USB ports, SD card slot.
BLOGGER WORKSHOP: Set-up your own artist blog by the end of class today! Work to reflect your
artist identity while establishing a place for exchanging reflections on projects and readings. Strive to write
analytically while expressing your individual voice. Your audience is informed and interested students and
art world professionals. Illustrate each and every post with captioned images and (if
appropriate) embedded videos. Hyperlink to relevant sites while titling each post with an
appropriate and catchy headline. Check your spelling and grammar carefully! Always post comments on 2
classmate blogs for each assigned project.
TO DO IN CLASS TODAY:
1. Design a blog using Blogger (you will need a gmail address). Name it after yourself using your
real/stage name or variant if possible. NOTE: Some students continue blog after LU and/or use as part
of their online portfolio). Select/design a template, title, page header, profile, color palette, layout,
gadgets. Set correct time stamp/time zone. Avoid cutesy or cluttered backgrounds and difficult to read
colors and fonts. Opt for a simple, legible design. The background should be neutral (e.g. white, black or
gray) so it doesn’t distract from your content unless ‘campy’ or ‘cutesy’ serves your ideas.
2. Email shimonj@lawrence.edu with your blog URL so it can be added to the
digitalprocesses.blogspot.com blog list. Subscribe to the class and classmate blogs using the blogs gadget.
BY NEXT CLASS MEETING: Get external drive and Marshall McLuhan book

PROJECT No. 1 – YOUR WORLD BLOG POST & PRESENTATION

Write a 250-word a blog post on your new blog introducing yourself and describing your world. What do you as an artist
want to say? Present your blog post to the class from the instructor podium. Include a McLuhan quote!
READINGS: McLuhan p. 1-24 (you), p. 25-51 (words)
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Reflect critically on your past and present creative activities, artistic motivations and interests in the form of an
illustrated/linked blog post.
2. Present an illustrated, 5 minute talk/demo based on your blog post.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. DEVELOP AN OUTLINE & WRITE TEXT: Consider structure ranging from chronological to thematic to
associative then write a 250-word blog post about you and your world. Proof carefully.
2. FIND IMAGES, VIDEOS & LINKS: Select visual materials online to help illustrate who you are (or aspire to
become) as an artist. Use about 3-4 examples in your blog post making sure they are captioned and help you make
specific points.
3. PRESENT: Show your blog design and first post in a 5-minute presentation.
4. POST: 2 comments responding to classmate posts for this project.
DUE: SEPT 17 (M)
WEEK 2

SEPT 17 PROJECT No. 1 BLOG POST DUE: Present your blog design and blog post to the class.
(M)
DISCUSS READINGS: McLuhan p. 1-24 (you), p. 25-51 (words)
PPT Presentation: Recent new media work
READ FOR NEXT CLASS: McLuhan p. 52-61 (space), p. 63-75 (time) Direct Cinema handout.

SEPT 19 TROUBLE SHOOT BLOGGER and iMAC ISSUES

(W)
SONY and CANON DIGITAL STILL CAMERAS: Visit Hurvis 060 desk to review equipment check
out procedures.
CAMERA DEMO/WORKSHOP: Review camera still and video functions (focusing, exposure, ASA/ISO,
flash, JPG size, color balance). Discuss using a tripod to stabilize and eliminate camera shake and refine
compositions. Discuss paying attention to light and looking carefully through the viewfinder to make sure
there are no items/objects in the frame that detract from your content. Consider your camera work/camera
angles and how the camera position influences meaning. Watch out for wandering focus! Discuss importing
footage from SD card. Help; http://www.mediacollege.com/video/camera
PREMIERE VIDEO DEMO/WORKSHOP: Review history/progression of film to video editing.
Demonstrate capabilities including adding titles and credits and exporting .mov files for uploading and saving
to your external drive.
EXPERIMENTAL FILM/VIDEO SCREENING: Experimental filmmaking styles are generally quite
different from and opposed to the practices of mainstream commercial and documentary filmmaking. An experimental
film is often characterized by the absence of linear narrative, the use of various abstracting techniques -- out-of-focus,
painting or scratching on film, rapid editing -- the use of asynchronous sound or even the absence of any sound track.
Most are self-financed made by the artist working alone or with a minimal crew and budget.
• David Lynch’s Lumiere anniversary 35 mm film (1 minute) (early 35 mm film technology)
• Nam June Paik’s “Zen for Film (7:59, 1962-64, excerpt) (materiality of film)
• Kenneth Anger’s “Kustom Kar Kommandos” (1965, 3:00) (predecessor to music video)
• Andy Warhol’s “Edie Sedgwick Screen Test” (1965, 3:91)(1-16mm roll, slowed 25%)
• Stan Brakhage’s “Mothlight” (1963, 3:00) (blank stock collage)
• Chris Burden’s “TV Commercials” (1973-77, 4:00, UBUweb) (TV critique on TV)
• William Wegman’s early Sony AV 3600 1/2” open reel to reel videos “I Got” (2:45), “TV Plunger
(:30), “Deodorant” (:49) (DVD, 1972-3) (early black-and-white video)
• Piplotti Rist’s “I’m Not the Girl Who Misses Much” (5:29, 1986)(super8)
• Ryan Trecrtin’s “Tommy Chat Emailed Me” (excerpt, 2006) (early digital video editing)
DISCUSS READINGS: McLuhan p. 52-61 (space), p. 63-75 (time) Direct Cinema handout.

PROJECT No. 2 – SPACE & TIME EXPERIMENTAL VIDEO

Produce a 1-minute experimental video using your own original footage and sounds to respond to McLuhan’s notions of
time becoming the new space as we “march backwards into the future” (p. 63). Think carefully about the implications of the
sounds and images you use and what they may mean to a viewer.
READINGS: McLuhan p. 52-61 (space), p. 63-75 (time).
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Use a phone or camera to capture video and sound while experimenting with the possibilities of digital video.
2. Edit using Premiere, save to your external drive, save final video as a Quicktime .mov file to upload to YouTube.
3. Create a short video from conceptualization to post-production.
REQUIREMENTS/CHECKLIST:
1. Develop an idea through research related to the assigned McLuhan readings and your artistic interests.
2. Shoot video footage using a phone or camera and edit using Premiere and store on your external drive. Use a smartphone
to shoot only if the phone-look is appropriate to your project.
3. Mix sound and add titles and credits and create a Quicktime .mov file and store on external drive.
4. Set-up YOUTUBE channel with profile. Upload your final Quicktime .mov file including description and creation date.
5. Screen your project in-class from your external drive.
6. Post a 150-word reflection on your blog, embed your video from YouTube, reflect on your approach to the project and
how it relates to assigned readings by quoting relevant passages.
7. Post 2 comments responding to classmate posts for this project.
DUE: SEPT 26 (W)
SEPT 21 (F) REFLECTION BLOGPOST No. 1 -ATTENDANCE REQUIRED; Artist Talk by Xiaohong
Zhang Friday, Sept. 21 at 6 PM (Wriston auditorium) Jot down notes to remind you of points you found
compelling. Attend the reception and engage artist in conversation. Think about Xiaohong’s role as a ‘maker’
and how that informs perceptions of what she does. Your 250 word post must analyze how the artist
presents their ideas and how their work relates to issues in this course. Illustrate using online
resources, and include a quote from McLuhan. DUE SEPT 24 (M)

WEEK 3:

SEPT 24 (M) REFLECTION BLOG POST No. 1 Due: Post two comments on classmates’ posts before midnight.

SEPT 24 (M) REFLECTION BLOGPOST No. 2 -ATTENDANCE REQUIRED; Artist Talk by Shelby
Rodeffer, Monday, Sept. 24 at 4:30 PM (Wriston auditorium) Jot down notes to remind you of points you
found compelling. Your 250 word post must analyze how the artist presents their ideas and how their work
relates to issues in this course. Illustrate using online resources, and include a quote from
McLuhan. DUE OCT 1(M)

SEPT 26 (W) PROJECT No. 2 EXPERIMENTAL VIDEO DUE: Present from instructor podium. Complete blog
post before class and leave comments on two student’s posts before midnight.

WEEK 4:

OCT 1 (M) ROBERT FRANK IN CULTURAL CONTEXT PPTX: Discuss the ways Frank critiqued mid-century
America with his The Americans body of work.
REFLECTION BLOG POST No. 2 Due: Post two comments on classmates’ posts before midnight.

PROJECT No. 3 – SOMETHING IS HAPPENING PHOTOS ONLINE

In Ballad of a Thin Man (1965), Bob Dylan sang: “Something is happening here and you don’t know what it is, do you, Mister
Jones?” to address the obliviousness of the general populous to a significant change in the social “environment.” Respond to
notions of “environments” and your own “antisocial actions” (non-conformity) as defined by Marshall McLuhan (p. 76) as you
make a series of images critiquing everyday contemporary life around you. Consider how Swiss photographer Robert Frank’s
camera could see the dissonance of Eisenhower era America in the streets revealing tensions around power, race, class, and TV.
Challenge yourself to critique the current environment in similarly potent manner.
READINGS: McLuhan p. 76-91 (progress), p. 92-99 (amateur, avant-garde), p. 100-108 (youth-education),
“Robert Frank: Transforming Destiny into Awareness: The Americans” hand out.
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Shoot stills then import and store raw files or .jpgs on an external drive.
2. Use PhotoShop to edit and create files with subtle manipulation of contrast, hue, saturation, and curves.
3. Make a Flickr site with artist profile, create a set using captions and text to convey concepts.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Brainstorm ideas for project related to the assigned McLuhan readings and your artistic interests.
2. Shoot at least 100 images with the SONY NEX-5 or other camera, pushing your ideas as far as you can. You may want
to experiment with your phone and also instagram, but be aware that these images are highly compressed and difficult to
edit. Avoid banal on-campus topics and try making multiple versions of the same subject from different vantage points.
Consider how each frame is composed, how elements are arranged within the frame, how shadow and light define mood. Is
it possible to avoid visual clichés?
3. Select 20 full resolution images to adjust in PhotoShop.
4. Set-up FLICKR account (free 1 TB storage) with an artist profile and portrait (use your real/stage name if possible).
Upload your 20 full resolution .jpgs with titles and organize into a “Set” using Flickr to sequence and create rhythm.
5. Add a Flickr/slideshow gadget to your blog.
6. Present all aspects of your Flickr site including profile, images, set, captions, tags, copyright, mapping, etc.
7. Post a 150-word reflection on your blog with a link to your Flickr site and pick a “signature image” from your set. Post
should be a self-evaluation including analysis of your treatment of the project, use of Flickr as an art venue, and then relate
to the assigned readings by quoting relevant passages.
8. Post 2 comments responding to classmate projects.
DUE: OCT 8 (M)
OCT 3 (W) DISCUSS READINGS: McLuhan p. 76-91 (progress), p. 92-99 (amateur, avant-garde), p.100-108 (youth-
education), “Robert Frank: Transforming Destiny into Awareness: The Americans” hand out.
AMATEUR & THE AVANT-GARDE PPTX: History of the Avant-Garde as related to McLuhan
reading.
• PHOTOSHOP & FLICKR DEMO/WORKSHOP: Review importing images, archiving to your external
drive, manipulating contrast, hue, saturation, curves in PhotoShop. Review use of Flickr including creating an
artist profile and “set.” Bring camera, images, external drive and be ready to work the entire class!

WEEK 5:

OCT 8 (M) PROJECT No. 3 PHOTOS DUE: Present your Flickr site and “set” of 20 titled images.
ARTISTS & BOOKS PPTX: Discuss the evolution of artist books and zines.
Blurb DEMO/WORKSHOP: Import your Flickr “set” to Blurb and begin designing a photo book.

PROJECT No. 4 – SOMETHING IS HAPPENING PHOTO BOOK

Use your Flickr set to make a book using populist print-on-demand photo book technology.
RE-READING: “Transforming Destiny into Awareness: The Americans” by Sarah Greenough hand out.
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Design and sequence a photo book to make meaning through juxtapositions and sequencing.
2. Meet deadlines by planning ahead allowing time for technology failure, production, and delivery.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Set-up a Blurb account then design a 7x7 inch 20-page photo book or 8.5x11 magazine (you may add more
pages). Add text, colors. A cover can be designed in PhotoShop. Avoid cliché, greeting-card-ish typography!
2. Present your Blurb book layout for critique and then revise during class. Order 1 copy (cost will be about $15-$30).
Delivery is usually in 7 days.

DUE: OCT 10 (W) online layout with finished printed book due OCT 31

OCT 10 (W) PROJECT No. 4 – PHOTO BOOK LAYOUT DUE: Present your Blurb layout. Following critique,
make adjustments and order one copy.
PREPARE FILES IN PHOTOSHOP FOR INKJET PRINTING:
Discuss issues of resolution and adjusting curves for outputting photo quality inkjet prints.
EPSON INKJET PRINTING DEMO/WORKSHOP @ WRISTON:
Bring full resolution images on your external drive then edit and output inkjet prints with guidance of
instructor.

PROJECT No. 5 – SOMETHING IS HAPPENING INKJET PRINTS FOR GALLERY EXHIBITION

Make and frame Epson inkjet prints for an exhibition in the Mudd Gallery.
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Use PhotoShop to edit and prepare .jpgs for ink jet printing.
2. Output photo quality inkjet exhibition prints using an Epson printer.
3. Edit and frame inkjet prints for gallery exhibition while working collaboratively with peers to install and host an art show.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Select and output 5 .jpgs as 8x10 Epson inkjet “work prints” to present in class for feedback along with your Blurb
printed photo book. Images often need to be slightly de-saturated and lightened to achieve naturalistic color. DUE: OCT
17
2. Select and output 2 .jpgs as 11x14 Epson inkjet “exhibition prints” then select and frame 2-11x14 Epson inkjet
prints using provided frames to exhibit in the gallery DUE: OCT 31
3. Bring framed 11x14 and your Blurb Photo Book to class. Help install exhibition, write a curatorial statement, make labels,
prepare FaceBook event DUE: OCT 31
4. Post a 150-word reflection on your blog responding to the experience of preparing for a gallery show.
5. Post 2 comments responding to classmate projects.
6. Attend the Something is Happening exhibition opening NOV 2 (F), 5:30-6:30 PM (on view thru MAR 1) in Mudd
Gallery, Library 3rd Floor! Arrive early and bring a snack or beverage to share! Invite your friends! “Dress sharp!”
DUE: OCT 17, OCT 31

WEEK 6:

OCT 15 SOUND PRODUCTION PPTX: Review evolution of sound editing and sound as art.
(M)
GARAGEBAND DEMO/WORKSHOP: Bring your headphones.
INKJET PRINTING TROUBLESHOOTING

PROJECT No. 6 – EVERYTHING WE DO (IS MUSIC) SOUNDSCAPE

Based on John Cage’s idea that “everything we do is music” and his 4’33”, use “found” and/or newly recorded sound to create a
1-minute soundscape/noise/music piece using GarageBand. Consider using ambient sound recorded with a video
camera, acoustic or electronic instruments, voice, or sound clips from online sources. If using pre-recorded music, limit samples
to 5 seconds or less to avoid copyright infringement. NOTE: This project DOES NOT require you to write a pop music tune
(although you may), rather the purpose is to respond to the “soundscape” that surrounds you in everyday life.
READING: McLuhan p. 108-119 (sound).
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Use GarageBand to create a soundscape
2. Pay attention to how sound changes the mood and feeling of space and time. Consider all sound/noise as music.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Use GarageBand to edit sound (loop, repeat, slow down, speed up, split clips) and create a 1-minute sound piece.
2. Post to SoundCloud and embed in your blog. Present your sound/noise piece from your external drive in class.
3. Post a 150-word reflection with a link to your sound piece on your blog and a visual to illustrate your concept. Include an
analysis of your creative process in relation to the assigned reading by quoting or referencing relevant passages.
4. Post 2 comments responding to classmate posts for project.
DUE: OCT 22 (M)

OCT 17 (W) PROJECT No. 5 – WORK PRINTS & BOOK DUE – Present 5 – 8x10 work prints. As a group select
strongest pair produced by each student to print 11x14.
DISCUSS READING: McLuhan p. 108-119 (sound).
Kraftwerk: Pop Art BBC 2015, 55 minutes
Documentary telling the story of how a group of reclusive Rhineland experimentalists called Kraftwerk
became one of the most influential pop groups of all time. It is a celebration of the band featuring exclusive
live tracks filmed at their Tate Modern shows in London in February 2013, interwoven with expert analysis,
archive footage of the group going back to 1970, newsreel of the era and newly shot cinematic evocations of
their obsessions. With contributions from techno pioneer Derrick May, Can founder Holger Czukay, DJ and
remixer Francois Kevorkian, graphic design guru Neville Brody, writer Paul Morley, band photographer Peter
Boettcher, Tate Modern curator Caroline Wood and others.
OCT 18-21 MID TERM READING PERIOD

WEEK 7:

OCT 22 (M) PROJECT No. 6 SOUNDSCAPE DUE: Introduce piece and play from instructor station.
FOR NEXT TIME: Familiarize yourself with report subjects.

PROJECT No. 8 – ALLATONCENESS NEW MEDIA PROJECT

Develop a new media project responding to McLuhan’s ideas of the global village. Writes McLuhan, “Ours is a brand-new
world of allatonceness. “Time” has ceased, “Space” has vanished. We now live in a global village…a simultaneous happening…we
have had to shift our stress of attention from action to reaction.” (p. 63) Possibilities include: an experimental short video (2-3
minutes), soundscape, internet site, photo book, portfolio of inkjet prints, drag show, music group, altruistic cooperative,
video/performance/installation piece, etc. Collaboration among students in the class is encouraged.
READING: McLuhan p. 120-131 (authorship), p. 132-137 (art), p. 138-157 (flowing, unified, fused).
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Conceptualize, research, plan, and complete a self-designed project.
2. Use current and populist technology to express ideas.
3. Understand how artists use new media in the service of art.
REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST:
1. Brainstorm then write a 1-page typed project proposal with bibliography. Create a 5-minute PPTX version of
your proposal describing and illustrating your idea, influences, and end product. Explain how your project builds on your
passions, prior art projects and aesthetic influences. DUE: OCT 29
2. Present your project as a work-in-progress to the class for feedback in a form appropriate to your project (e.g.
PowerPoint overview, rough cut video, draft layout, etc.). DUE: NOV 12
3. Post a 150-word reflection on your blog with links to your project (in appropriate form) and visuals along with your self-
evaluation.
4. Post two (2) comments responding to classmate projects.
5. Present your work in the Warch Campus Center Cinema. Be prepared to introduce yourself and your project.
IMPORTANT: The Studio Art Final Critique is equivalent to the Final Exam in academic courses. Your attendance and
enthusiastic participation is mandatory! Independent Study students will join us!
DUE: OCT 29, NOV 12, NOV 18 3:00-5:30 @ Warch Campus Center Cinema or TBD
OCT 24 (W) RESEARCHING CREATORS PROJECT: Review requirements, creators, suggestions for designing a
PowerPoint (PPTX) about art.
VISUAL RESOURCES LIBRARY/MUDD LIBRARY WORKSHOP: VRL librarian Colette Lunday
Brautigam will present info on digital images (e.g. ARTstor), library resources (books and videos), and Internet
research using credible sources.
READ FOR NEXT TIME: McLuhan p. 120-131 (authorship), p. 132-137 (art) and be prepared to discuss.

PROJECT No. 7 - THE MEDIUM IS THE MASSAGE RESEARCH REPORT

Produce a 8-10 minute illustrated research report on creators mentioned in Marshall McLuhan’s The Medium is
the Massage. Before our meeting today, get familiar with each person on the list below using a Google search in order to find
a creator that resonates with your interests. Each student will pick a different creator to research: The Beatles
(composers/musicians), John Cage (composer/artist), Bob Dylan (poet/musician/songwriter), Meister Eckhar(d)t
(philosopher/mystic), Exploding Plastic Inevitable (multimedia performance artists), Laotze (philosopher), Marilyn Monroe
(actress/sex symbol), Michel de Montaigne (writer), Charlotte Moorman (cellist/performance artist), Isaac Newton
(physicist), Friedrich Nietzsche (philosopher/poet/cultural critic), J. Robert Oppenheimer (theoretical physicist), Carl Orff
(composer/educator), Alfred North Whitehead (mathematician/philosopher), William Wordsworth (poet).
LEARNING OUTCOMES (students should be able to):
1. Conduct research using an academic library, and credible online resources.
2. Present an illustrated talk on a creator with a clear, focused thesis and appropriate images.
3. Think critically about how art practice, media theory, and technologies interact over time.
REQUIREMENTS/CHECKLIST:
1. DEVELOP A THESIS & CONDUCT RESEARCH: Check out books from the Mudd Library (some are shelved in
oversize area [q]). Search the Internet and periodicals for recent articles and critical essays. Identify a thesis in relation to
McLuhan. Present a brief overview of their work, examine how McLuhan references them, then form an argument helping
viewers understand why they/their ideas are part of the book. Include bio info only if relevant to your report. Do not base
your report on Wikipedia as it often contains errors and information not pertinent to this project.
2. FIND IMAGES: Select digital images or videos using ARTstor or other credible online image sources such as ARTstor,
public/museum collections (MoMA, Getty, Eastman House, etc.), commercial galleries, artist/estate websites (small .jpgs about
1000 pixels work, use best you can find). Use about 10 examples to illustrate specific points you are making. Carefully
“read” each image you show. Make sure you have a talking point for each. NOTE: Video clips less than 1-minute may be
included. Embed your movie video files in PPTX and place them in the same file folder as PPTX. Do not
hyperlink to online videos as there loading delays/ads.
3. DESIGN PPTX: Use PowerPoint (PPTX) to design your slide show. The background should be neutral (black, white, gray)
and fonts simple so you do not distract from the art and images. Start by stating your title and thesis along with your name
and the date of the presentation. End with your bibliographic sources. Include title, size and medium of artworks. Key bullet
points or quotes are okay, but avoid reading off the screen.
4. WRITE OUTLINE & BIBLIOGRAPHY: Write a 1 pg. typed outline including your thesis and key points for use
during presentation. PREPARE BIBLIOGRAPHY: Write a 1 pg. typed bibliography listing all your sources, which
must include: 2 books, 1 printed periodical, 5 online journals (to be handed in to instructor after presentation).
5. POST: 150-word reflection on your artist with pertinent links and images.
6. COMMENT: 2 comments responding to classmate posts on this project.
7. PRESENT: PPTX from external drive, email to self. Speak clearly and concisely. “Read” each image you show to help
viewers get your point then present significant talking points for each image. Use bullet text slides sparingly! Don’t read from
the bullet points! Late presentations WILL NOT be accepted and will receive an F.
DUE: NOV 5 (M)

WEEK 8:

OCT 29 (M) THE FOUND AESTHETIC IN ART PPTX: From Marcel Duchamp’s The Fountain to Wayne White’s
words painted over thrift store landscapes; artists use existing objects, images, sound, and video to make new
statements through alterations, repetition, obliterations, juxtapositions, looping, slowing down, speeding up.
DISCUSS AUTHORSHIP/APPROPRIATION: McLuhan p. 120-131 (authorship), p. 132-137 (art).
EXTRACTING VIDEO FOOTAGE/SOUND FROM THE INTERNET USING KEEP VID
DEMO/WORKSHOP: Discuss availability of footage/sound on YouTube, etc. Sources include public
domain archives such as Prelinger Archives or YouTube.
PROJECT No. 8 PROJECT PROPOSAL DUE: Present PPTX, hand in typed proposal.
OCT 31 (W) PREPARE & INSTALL EXHIBITION: A group effort! Every student must contribute to putting on the
show! Bring framed 11x14 and your photo book, help write curatorial statement, make exhibition labels,
create Facebook event, hang framed works/labels/statement/vinyl lettering, adjust lighting, and make sure space
is as spotless as possible, etc.!
WORK SESSION: Make sure to have raw material to work on in class.
READING FOR NEXT CLASS: McLuhan p. 138-157 (flowing, unified, fused) and THE GLOBAL
VILLAGE.

NOV 2 (F) SOMETHING IS HAPPENING EXHIBITION OPENING @ MUDD GALLERY: Bring your friends!
5:30-6:30 Bring a snack or beverage to share! Arrive a few minutes early to help set-up the food! “Dress sharp!”
PM

WEEK 9:

NOV 5 (M) PROJECT No. 7 RESEARCH REPORT DUE: Present your illustrated PPTX and have blog posted.

NOV 7 (W) DISCUSS READING: McLuhan p. 138-157 (flowing, unified, fused) and THE GLOBAL VILLAGE.
DE-INSTALL MUDD GALLERY EXHIBITION
Something is Happening exhibition blog post due.

WEEK 10:

NOV 12 (M) PROJECT No. 8 WORK-IN-PROGRESS PRESENTATIONS: Update the class and get feedback.
WORK SESSION: Make sure to have raw material to work on in class.

NOV 14 (W) CREATE FINAL CRITIQUE PROGRAM: Have your project title and one sentence synopsis ready!
WORK SESSION & TROUBLE SHOOTING: Make sure your technology is working and you have
everything you need to finish and present your project!

NOV 18 PROJECT No. 8 NEW MEDIA PROJECT FINAL CRITIQUE @ WARCH CC CINEMA or
(Sunday) TBD:
3:00-5:30 Present your final, polished project to the group! Have project posted to your blog with a 150 word reflection.

CHECKLIST OF MANDATORY “THINGS TO DO” BY FINAL CLASS DAY

Return all LU digital equipment (cameras, recorders, cables, chargers) to avoid charges. Check
and re-check your room for small items!

Remove art and devices from Hurvis and Wriston Digital Labs to avoid loss or damage!

Back up any files left on lab computers to avoid loss when equipment is “reimaged” over break!
© JS 9.7.18