this studio workshop is a broad introduction to creative activities that take place within the space of digital devices and networks. starting from your existing knowledge-base, explorations will include a variety of pratical and functional subjects, but will also focus on the development of wide-spectrum sensibilities and collaborative 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, represents a different tool and even a different medium. the computer is a creative means of production of traditional 2-D and 3-D artifacts -- text, image, audio, video. however, the primary and 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. 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. new forms 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. an artist engaged in this field of research must be aware of many threads of thought.
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, collaborative projects, and, most importantly, dialogues designed to explore new concepts. you 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. you are also expected to bring their own ideas, creative impulses, and perceptions into the classroom situation to generate community action and discussion. rather than hooking into a limited paradigm of software-dependence, expanded knowledge-bases are facilitated which give you a powerful means to navigate in broader digital spaces with confidence. in this 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.
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; you 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!"
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. students should expect to spend a minimum of 15-20 hours weekly in the lab working OUTSIDE of class.