Introduction to Digital Art and Design Criticism

Catalog description

An introduction to the language, aesthetics and cultural impacts of digital art and design in contemporary society. ART 211 Introduction to Digital Art and Design Criticism (3) (US)(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. ART 211 examines 1) the conventions, language, practices, and aesthetics used by digital artists and designers and 2) the social and cultural implications that they and their works have for society with regard for the contexts of politics, philosophy, economics, race, gender, and technological development. Critical and creative thinking and expression are given primary emphasis in class activities and assignments. The course meets twice weekly and topics are explored through lectures, discussions, readings, presentations by visiting speakers, and out-of-class trips. Course assignments are writing and project based and require students to respond to ideas and concepts presented in class and to develop critiques of digital works through a variety of formats. Assignments include informal in-class projects, media reviews, a course journal, and a final project. Students build writing skills through analyzing assigned readings and developing research- and reflection-based projects about digital art and design. Speaking and listening skills are developed through discussions and collaborative activities.Course topics explore the: - social contexts of digital art/design; - significance of the computer interface to digital art and design; - practices used by digital artists and designers and their impact on audiences; and - professional issues, concerns, and controversies affecting digital art/design, artists/designers, and their audiencesStudents are required to have access to the Internet and to their University e-mail account. ART 211 will enroll 25 students and will be offered spring semester.