ARTS 319(F) Junior Seminar

The artist can be regarded as mediator who creates an abject (or event) in an attempt to bridge the experience of the maker and the viewer; extending the provinces of each. In the process of fabrication, presentation, and evaluation, the artist faces a series of complex decisions. The selection and manipulation of materials are necessary stages in the assembly of the work; form and material, after all, contain important meaning for the work. Less obvious, but equally necessary for the education of the artist, is the careful study of the subtle complexities found in the issues that have shaped meaningful content. What inquiries continue to drive the visual arts in our contemporary communities? On the basis of issues assembled by the studio art faculty, this course will examine questions contributing to the creative act. In the context of the past three decades, we will discuss the assumed and shifting responsibilities of the artist, the object (event), and the viewer. Extensive readings and class discussion will support the work completed in the studio. Evaluation will be based on evidence of each student's progress as shown in a portfolio of work. Attendance and participation in class discussions, presentations, and field trips are considered of equal importance in the course evaluation. Prerequisites: ArtS 100 or ArtS 103, ArtS 230, and ArtH 101-102. Limited to junior studio majors and required of them. Any student planning for study away from Williams during the fall term of the junior year must receive a written waiver of this requirement from the Co-Chair of Studio Art.

Hour:  H. SHEARER and L. SHEARER