VIDEO
FOR THE ARTIST
|
Assistant
Professor A. Brown |
DESCRIPTION:
This class explores the technical, theoretical and conceptual foundations
of video art. Students learn basic recording, lighting and non-linear editing
techniques, and develop critical listening and viewing skills. Class structure
will consist of lectures, demonstrations, screenings and critiques. Students
will be expected to complete various technical assignments, five short videos and one final project, the theme of which will be decided on by the
class. This final piece will be presented to the public. EVERYONE IS
EXPECTED TO PARTICIPATE WITH ENTHUSIASM. Students should anticipate dedicating
a significant number of hours outside of class to successfully complete their
coursework.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Gain technical proficiency using video and audio recording/editing
equipment
2. Gain technical proficiency using basic lighting equipment
3. Develop a conceptual foundation for creating video
4. Explore the basic historical, conceptual and theoretical roots of video
production
SCHEDULE:
Like your creative work this course is a work in progress. It is
your responsibility to consult the course web site for changes in the schedule.
GRADES:
In order to receive a grade, students must turn work in by the due date
outlined in the syllabus. Work that is not turned in on time will result in
a failing grade.
Completed
video assignments should demonstrate that students should possess the following:
1. Technological competence
2. A well executed and clearly articulated concept
3. An understanding of how sequence construction and editing affects the concept
of the video
Video
assignments (Each assignment is weighted equally) 60%
Class participation 20%
Final Screening 10%
Readings/Writing 10%
Grading is based on conceptual and aesthetic merit as well as technical execution and effort (as in any arts course). Late assignments will be significantly downgraded.
A Excellent work exceeding expectations. Outstanding participation, attendance, and assignments. A student producing work in the top 20% of his or her class.
B Above average assignments and mastery of tools and concepts, participation and attendance.
C Average execution of assignments, participation and attendance.
D Well below average work, participation and attendance.
F Unsatisfactory work, participation and attendance.
**Late assignments are not accepted without doctor's note or evidence of an emergency, by prior arrangement with the professor on emergency grounds (if you are having an emergency, email me a.s.a.p.). Incompletes for the course will not be given except in cases of evidence of personal hardship/illness discussed in advance.
ATTENDANCE:
Attendance is MANDATORY. Interaction and collaboration are an important
aspect of the learning process and are critical for establishing trust among
your peers. Please note that your grade will be reduced one full letter grade
for every two absences. Six absences will result in a failing grade for the
course. This policy will be strictly enforced. If you need to miss a
class please contact me in advance.
READING
ASSIGNMENTS:
Reading assignments will be comprised of handouts, digital reserve materials
via the Bizzel Library's web site, and web pages. The assigned reading materials
are designed to compliment the imaginative process and provide a context for
creative projects. Students will be required to turn in a one-page response
to assigned readings and be prepared for a class discussion.
WRITING
ASSIGNMENTS:
An approximately one page description of the readings, with 2-3 key points
of the author, is due when indicated on the schedule-- No exceptions. If two
articles are to be read, they can be compared and contrasted in one summary,
one page, providing sufficient detail is offered by you, the writer. If you
know you will be busy in a particular week, do your readings ahead of time.
TEXT
BOOK:
There is no required text book
Optional Text:
Final Cut Pro (Visual Quick Pro Guide) by Lisa Brenneis (Available on
Amazon.com)
Illuminating
Video: An Essential Guide to Video Art, by Doug Hall and Sally Jo Fifer (Also
available on Amazon.com)
EQUIPMENT:
(see handout)
1 firewire portable hard drive
1 mini-dv videocamera
3-4 mini-dv tapes
LAB
HOURS:
The media lab hours will be posted.
(It is generally open week day evenings and all day on Saturday and Sunday)
*We will be looking for volunteers to staff the media lab.
REASONABLE
ACCOMMODATION POLICY:
Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent him or
her from demonstrating his or her ability should contact me as soon as possible
so we can discuss accommodations necessary to ensure full participation and
facilitate your involvement in the class.