this studio workshop is a broad introduction to creative activities that take place within the space of digital networks. working from the existing knowledge-base of the participants, explorations will include a variety of pratical and functional subjects, but will also focus on the development of creative sensibilities and awarenesses as a open platform for subsequent creative action.
It is something of a misnomer to speak about "digital art" per se. The computer is a tool that drives a wide range of activities with extremely diverse knowledge-sets. Each digital device, given its particular situation and dependent on its internal architecture and external interface, may represent a different tool and even a different medium. The computer is indeed a creative tool in many situations where it is an aid in the production of traditional 2-D and 3-D artifacts -- text, image, audio, video. However, a unique characteristic of the computer lies in its use when networked -- when it is a gateway or means to connect with other individuals in the exercise of tele-presence. New paradigms of community and the position and identity of the self within society are evolving rapidly under the applied socio-economic stresses of technological/digital development and the convergence of telecommunications, computing power, and media.
network space is essentially a divergent space whose "meaning" might only be defined as the accumulation and totality of all social practices which are happening in that space.
the workshop is not just about art-making skills related to technological tools, it is about creating new paradigms for living and creating new ways of being. It is presented as a series of lectures, working sessions, practical exercises, projects, and, most importantly, dialogues designed to introduce new concepts. Participants should be prepared to engage in attentive and dialectic interaction, explore the possibilities presented, engage the tools covered -- as the formal structure of the course is integral to the content presented. Students are also expected to bring their own ideas, creative impulses, and perceptions into the classroom situation to generate community action and discussion.
proceeding directly in the concept of distributed networks, the course will rely on the spontaneous energies of all the participants. the specific operation of the workshop will not always follow a plan; participants should be comfortable with indeterminate states of being in the process of change. with this in mind: the syllabus for the course IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. this is in order that the course situation itself might more dynamically evolve, reflecting the interests and directions of the participants. one of the most powerful creative motivations is unforseen necessity. if you find change to be a stimulus, this course is for you! in the words of organist E. Power Biggs, "be prepared to have a happening, if not, MOVE BACK!"
in a space of dynamic flows the artist must develop internal consciousness at the same time as that they come to a heightened awareness of their interactions with the Other.
The mailing list fine-2126@lists.colorado.edu will be an active forum for the duration of the seminar. Attention and participation on the mailing list is as much a part of the course as in-class meetings. Attendance is mandatory for all sessions.
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