Art and technology are inextricably linked. We must teach our students about the historical origins and references from which art and technology are derived. At the onset of my introductory courses, I begin with a lecture that illuminates these concepts. There is a rich history behind the art and technology connection that dates back thousands of years.   A caveman with a story to tell about a recent hunt painted a bison on the dark wall of a cave. Gathering his friends together, the caveman led them to this darkened space. It is here, in that damp cave, he illuminated the figure of the bison and began to tell his story using the ancient tools of fire and pigment.

It is from the caveman’s origins that we trace the history of today’s art and media. Recognizing this history is essential because it reminds us of the connection between communication, technology and humankind.

We must critically engage students in discussions not only about the work they create, and the technology they use, but also about the broader social implications of creating art in this technological age. What is the role of the artist’s voice? What are the social consequences of producing work in the new mediascape? How does an artist use this electronic media? Is there a difference between an artist working today versus an artist who lived one hundred years ago?

I bring ideas of Intermedia and Symbiotic Media into all of my teaching. These philosophies support collaboration between media and other disciplines, without situating one art form over another. They are concept-driven, intermixing theoretical considerations with art practices. Introductory courses command a more rigid structure, while intermediate and advanced courses emphasize tran-disciplinary investigations, research and praxis. I expect that all students produce a multitude of work, and I attempt to foster an environment that is conducive to the exchange of feedback and ideas from all class participants.

Recently, I have developed a new program at the University of Oklahoma. The Symbiotic Media Laboratory (SML) is an inter-disciplinary program where artists, engineers, scientists and scholars gather to investigate the dynamic interplay of humans, biology and technologies. Celebrating the creativity and problem-solving skills that link the fields, SML explores cognitive, emotional and social consequences of electronic media. Participants build exhibits and curricula around the conceptual innovations and novel forms that emerge from this cross-disciplinary integration and attempts to create a mutually beneficial environment that makes contributions to both art and science.

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