NMDA
461
SOFT CINEMA: Advanced New Media Projects
8:00AM to 3:00PM
Room 405
Course Description:
The objective of this course is to investigate and implement discursivity in
/ around / related to hypertext markup language, and its yet minor yet exciting
progeny hyperlinking digital video disks. Rather than working with time based
images which adhere to the linearity of tape playback, DVD's offer true non
linear access to a databe of time with which the user interacts. In addition
to demonstrating relevant software, the class will be augmented with readings
on Baudrillard's Simulation, Ted Nelson's Xanadu project, Delueze's Rhizome,
Virilios Speed, Wiener's Cybernetics, Game Theory, Artificial Intelligence,
and Moraveckian Transhumanism. The course will attempt to trace the precursors
and history of hypertext as well as its applicability to post-modern practice.
Projects will include the construction and implementation of each students'
own website as well as a long term interactive DVD project. Students are encouraged
to develop interactive works based on monitors, interactive spatial installations,
or immersive sound spaces. The projects will attempt to draw realistic parallels
between the above-listed theoretical texts and the how to of making interactive
hi-resolution images and sound.
The Class will be
broken into three componenets.
Lectures:
are devoted to presentation of conceptual material, screening and discussions
of recent works in new media. In addtion to contemporary photography, we will
review CD-ROMs, DVDs, web sites, digital films, computer games, and works in
traditional media influenced by digital processes including film, animation,
and painting.
We will discuss general principles of organisation of photographically oriented
works and influences drawn from animation, cinema, and comics and compositional
principles drawn from fine arts. We will look at how these principles can be
applied to static media.
Demos:
will introduce students to a working knowledge of Final Cut, Dreamweaver, and
After Effects.
Projects: will include the construction and group analysis of student produced digital prints, and web sites. The collective projects will attempt to draw realistic parallels between theoretical texts and a development of a digital art practice.
Course
Requirements:
Required Text: Handouts and online to be distributed.
Materials: To be discussed.
Prerequisites: None
Attendance:
Three absences = F, Three tardies (15 mins late or ealy departure) = One Absence.
Each absence lowers the final grade by one point.
Failure to show on scheduled presentation days lowers the grade by one point.
Making up presentation appointments is only available if there are open appointment
times or if, between yourselves, you can switch dates.
Grading: Projects and Assignments:
Research – 25% of the grade will be based on proof of research completed.
Development – 25% of the grade will be based on the student’s ability
to choose, develop, illustrate and elaborate upon a topic of their choosing.
Application – 50% of the grade will be based on the student’s ability
to understand and apply the topics and themes discussed in class to the subjects
/ objects they present.
Grading:
Quarterly and Overall:
Development – 30% of the grade will be based on the student’s ability
to show initiative, develop and expand skills in conceiving and designing webpages.
Application – 40% of the grade will be based on the student’s ability
to form connections between the readings presented and the structure, performance
and symptoms of the internet.
Participation – 30% of the grade will be based on the student’s active
participation in readings and discussions.