Introduction
to Computer Art
Fall 1998
Instructor: Martine Barnaby-Sawyer
Monday/Wednesday 2:00 - 3:50
barnabys@gl.umbc.edu
410-455-2150 (to leave a message in my mailbox)
S y l l a b u s
Course Description
This course introduces the computer as a powerful tool for the artist. I expect
you to approach assignments from an artistic, well thought out perspective before
engaging in the technical execution.
We will discuss the ethical, philosophical, creative and practical considerations
regarding digital imaging technology as it shapes our lives both as members of
a rapidly changing society and as image makers/artists. Assignments
Assignments given in class will help you acquire the fundamental imaging skills.
The exercises may include, but are not limited to images alteration, retouching
and enhancement, collage/montage, sequencing, combining image and text, and combining
computer technology with traditional media. Assignments are intended to help you
see the potential of the computer as a creative tool for artists working in various
disciplines. You are also expected to develop and demonstrate the ability to discuss
your ideas and explain your thinking process. The final project will offer you
a chance to explore the aspects covered in the course that will best serve your
personal artistic ambitions.
Requirements
Journals:
I will ask you to keep a working journal. This book is for you to develop your
ideas, process, interests, research and sketches as it pertains to your art making.
I will be relying on your journals as a starting off point for discussions in
individual conferences. All work must be well thought out and sketched before
advancing to the computer. This journal should reflect all of your process throughout
the semester
Your journal may take any form or size. However, it must be a bound book. Journals
might include notes, drawings, polaroids, napkin sketches, technical diagrams,
pop-up constructions, coffee stains,etc. Journals will be graded in your
presence during final evaluation meetings. Private material that you do not wish
to be reviewed should be explicitly indicated at that time or marked with paper
clips, post-it notes, etc.
Readings:
Readings will be distributed throughout the semester. Critiques will frequently
be initiated from various topics covered in the readings. In order to participate
effectively you will need to have read the required texts and be able to articulate
your responses to them within the context of class discussion and critique.
Writing Assignments:
There will be approximately 4 writing assignments through out the semester.
All papers must be typed, spell checked, well researched and cohesively written.
Each paper will be considered as part of the grade for that particular assignment
Participation:
Participation in class discussion and critique is essential to developing communication
skills that will prepare you to understand and discuss your own work and the work
of your peers with greater clarity and depth.
Grades:
Grades are a way of evaluating your progress, commitment, and potential as an
artist. However, instead of being preoccupied with grades, try to concentrate
on living up to your personal potential and always try to exceed your own expectations.
I will run class as a working studio where students interact, receive feedback
and participate in discussions and critiques. Class participation and input is
a large part of your grade. You will be given a midterm grade, which reflects
where you stand in the class at mid-semester meeting. All assignments, attendance
and class participation will be evaluated. The final grade will be determined
by your assignment grades, overall participation, journals, work ethic.
Projects must be produced on time and be an active part of the class critique.
In order to keep our discussion on track it is essential that everyone have their
projects ready on time. Grades for late submissions are automatically lowered
one grade. You are given a week grace period to hand late projects. After that
week no work will be accepted and an F will be given for assignment. Final
Grade Breakdown:
Journals 30%
Attendance and Class Participation 35%
Assignments/Writing Assignments 35%
A
Well above the expectations of the course. Outstanding participation, attendance,
process journal. Exceptional artistic, conceptual and technical execution of assignments.
B
Above average assignments and proficiency over tools. Very good participation,
attendance, process journal. Solid artistic, conceptual and technical execution
of assignments.
C
Average execution of assignments, process journal, participation and attendance.
D
Well below average work for assignments, process journal,participation and attendance.
F
Unsatisfactory work for assignments, process journal, participation and attendance.
Attendance
Class meets on Monday and Wednesdays 2:00 - 3:50. We will start class promptly
at 2:00. If you miss 3 or more classes during the semester you will automatically
receive an "F" for the class. Chronic lateness will also result in the same (three
late arrivals equals one absence). Every unexcused absence counts against your
grade. If you need to miss a class. I can be notified by email ( barnabys@gl.umbc.edu
) or by calling the Fine Arts office @ 410-455-2150 and leaving a message
in my mailbox.
I will run a workshop once a week. The workshop is a working in class session
of the current project. This gives me the chance to talk to people individually
and problem solve. These workshops are just as important as critiques. If you
must miss a class it is your responsibility to contact me and to complete the
missed work as soon as possible.
Highly Recommended Text:
Photoshop 4 Visual Quickstart Guide, Peachpit Press
HTML 4 Visual Quickstart Guide, Peachpit Press
Photoshop 4.0 Bible By Deke McClelland, IDG Books
Materials:
Your working journal/sketch book.
Several High Density floppy disks
Syquest 135MB EZ disk or Zip 100MB Cartridge to regularly back up your work.
Color output for one project TBA this semester. The cost will be approximately
$15.00