syllabus

The purpose of art is to lay bare the questions which have been hidden by the answers.
– James Baldwin

DANM 211B/213B, Critique/Lecture II&IV, is the continuation of 211A/213A. The course is designed to provide ongoing opportunities for M.F.A. students to present work, receive feedback and review the work of others, including professional digital media artists and researchers. Course participants are required to present works-in-progress based on projects developed in the project design course, engage in critique discussions, and attend guest lectures.

In the 1990s, I discovered a different way forward. During a choreographic workshop in New York City, I met Liz Lerman and learned her Critical Response Process (CRP). I found CRP enabled a group of people to uncover their various aesthetic and socio-cultural values and, by being patient, apply them to a creative work-in-progress in a way that pushes the artist’s thinking forward. This is the approach to critique that I use and teach. In this course, I expect that you will a) learn to use and (ideally enjoy) the 4 step critical response process, b) continue to develop the ability to ask good questions and to respond intelligently about your own work and that of others, and c) become increasingly comfortable with public speaking.

OUTLINE

The course is organized around:

Critiques: First and second year MFA students are required to present works-in-progress for group critique and to participate in critique discussions.
Lectures: Guest speakers are invited to present their ideas and work and to offer critiques of student work.

READING

There is no required text. Selected readings will be recommended and listed on the course website projects section.

ASSIGNMENTS

You are responsible for completing two (2) self-assessments, participating in group critiques, attending guest lectures, and taking a road trip to the Bay Area. See the projects section for details.

SAT/UNSAT

Course credit will depend upon satisfactory attendance, completion of assignments, and manifest effort in applying the CRP during group critiques.

ATTENDANCE

Absences. Policy permits one (1) excused absence per quarter in classes that meet one time a week. After two (2) unexcused absences, I reserve the right to assign a failing grade and write an unsatisfactory performance evaluation. To consider an absence excused, I require proper written documentation from a health care professional.
Tardiness. Excessively (or habitually) late individuals are frowned upon and may result in an unexcused absent. Early departures from class are allowed only in the event of emergency or the instructor has been notified prior to the class session.

INJURIES AND HEALTH ISSUES: NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENT

Students are advised not to participate in class with an illness. You must inform me of any recent injury or health issues that may affect your class work. A written health clearance may be requested before a return to class participation is permitted. If you will miss two or more classes due to illness, you must provide a written statement that details your personal plan for treatment (including a physician’s report), and a timeline for your return to class. Your grade may be affected depending upon the nature and extent of the illness.

ACCOMMODATIONS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS AND RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS

Students who require special physical or cognitive accommodations must contact the office handling special needs within the first three weeks of classes or the dates of the academic requirement for which the accommodation is sought. Religious beliefs will be accommodated according to University policy. Please notify the instructor one week prior to the holiday date.

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