AMS 105/ART 105: New Media – Sculpture Against the Digital Horizon
Through a series of reading/viewing/discussion sessions, this course will first examine issues and ideas that involve the use of new media methods and technologies in the contemporary practice of art. Second, through studio projects ranging from video art to social practice art to Internet art, this course will serve as a laboratory from which experiments will be performed that investigate these ideas through students’ own cultural production. Prof. Nestor Gil. TR 9:00-11:50
FAMS 230: Reading Visual Media
Our first books are picture books, but as we age, the images disappear and we focus on reading and writing WORDS. While images surround us, we are rarely taught how to read, analyze, or acknowledge as intellectual property the non-verbal modes of communication. This course will introduce students to semiotics, to techniques for analyzing visual images. Concentrating on three forms of media (print advertising, graphic novels, and television), we will discuss how we receive and respond to images, and how those images function intellectually, emotionally, and ethically and in our culture. Prof. Suzanne Westfall. MWF 9:00-9:50
FAMS 270/ASIA 270: World Cinemas – Contemporary Chinese Cinema
Ever since film was introduced into China at the end of the nineteenth century, it has become a major medium of mass communication, and has played an important role in China’s quest for modernity. Despite warfare, censorship, competition from Hollywood, and other obstacles witnessed by over one hundred years of development, the Chinese film industry is currently one of the most vibrant in the world. This course introduces its major developments and genres since 1980 by presenting representative films from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Students will study Chinese films both as a unique form of artistic expression and a powerful social and political discourse. All films have English subtitles. No knowledge of Chinese language necessary. Prof. Li Yang. MW 11:00-12:15 AND Lab F 11:00-1:00
FAMS 345/PHIL 345: Philosophy of Film
An examination of philosophical questions on the nature, interpretation, and evaluation of film. Topics may include: the distinctive nature of the moving image compared to other forms of representation; the issue of whether film is an art form; film authorship; the essence of film narrative; the role of the imagination in understanding and appreciating film; identification and emotional engagement with characters; film and morality; film and knowledge. Prerequisite: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor. Prof. Alessandro Giovannelli. M 7:00-9:50.
FAMS 420: Film & Media Studies Capstone
This required course for FAMS majors is a chance for students to synthesize their course of study in one major individual project. The capstone is a workshop-based experience where students design and complete either a critical or creative (or some combination of the two) project that results in a public presentation of their most advance work as FAMS majors. Open only to Senior FAMS majors. Prof. Nandini Sikand. TR 2:45-4:00
A&S 260: Film, Media, and Popular Culture in Africa
From its colonial origins to the postcolonial present, cinema has played a key role in African cultural production, connecting the continent to global media circuits. The class analyzes film as a sociocultural medium, drawing on ethnographic perspectives. Indeed, by linking the study of film with interdisciplinary approaches to popular culture, the class foregrounds the diverse roles that media play in sociocultural life. In readings and discussions we will examine how diverse African social worlds have actively shaped and been altered by the creation, circulation, and reception of moving images, focusing on documentary, video films, hip-hop, film festivals, and other domains of popular cultural expression. Prerequisite: A&S 102, or permission of instructor. Prof. William Bissell. TR 2:45-4:00
ART 155: Digital Photography I
Creative expression, explorations of content and articulation of ideas will be emphasized. The course comprises technical lectures, laboratory demonstrations, slide lectures of historic and contemporary photography, and critiques of student work. Upon completion of the course, a student can expect to have a thorough understanding of the basics of digital photography—proper and consistent image exposure, basic Photoshop skills and competency with scanning and digital printing. Prof. Karina Skvirsky. MW 9:00-11:50; Prof. Greta Brubaker. TR 9:30-12:20
ART 355: Digital Photography III
This class is designed for advanced students in photography. Students will use the entire semester to create a project that expresses the student’s personal point of view in a well-developed manner using photography. Advanced techniques in digital and analogue photography, lighting and editing will be scheduled throughout the semester. Lectures and discussions will focus on the history of photography and media art and current trends in contemporary art giving students the ability to situate their work within the field. Students are required to participate in one field trip to NYC or Philadelphia and attend numerous lectures on campus. Prerequisite: Photography II or Consent of the Professor. Prof. Karina Skvirsky. TR 1:10-4:00
ENG 231: Journalistic Writing
The aim of this course is to learn how to write a news story across a variety of media platforms in a clear, concise and engaging manner through accurate and thorough reporting. You will also gain an understanding of how the media works and its function in today’s society and will be required to analyze and evaluate coverage of current events, including the presidential election. Class structure and assignments are designed to simulate a real working media environment and will include mock press conferences and in-class deadline exercises. Enrollment capped at 15. Prof. Kathleen Parrish. MW 3:10-4:00