Nature/Image

Description

This program is an intensive visual arts program for students having a good background in studio art, who are passionate about the natural world and eager to learn more about it. How have past artists, philosophers and scientists understood and depicted the physical world? How are contemporary artists re-interpreting and re-shaping our fundamental relationship to the environment and to other species? What is the role of the artist in a time of environmental crisis? Through readings, lectures seminars and focused studio work, we will examine these questions. Individually, we will take the approach of artist/naturalists, and delve deeply into an exploration of some aspect of nature that intrigues each of us. Through research and studio work we will express our understanding and personal vision of this piece of Nature.

Fall quarter will focus on intensive skill building work in drawing, painting and mixed media, in preparation for our individual field studies. We will also study critical reading and research skills through lectures, readings, and practical assignments. In the first weeks of winter quarter, each of us will present a proposal for an in-depth, individual field study of a site, organism, natural process or system. During the three weeks (weeks 7,8,9) of winter, everyone will conduct his/her field study at a site either on-campus or off-campus in the U.S. Back on campus in week 10, we will all present our Nature/Image field projects to the program.

How will each of us choose where we want to do our field study? You may have a special place that calls you, or a passion for a particular plant, animal or natural phenomenon that determines your choice. The work of another artist may inspire your project. Your field study could be done on Evergreen's Beach trail or in your home town. Your project might take you on hikes into a pristine wilderness area or to the Seattle Zoo.

Both on-campus and off, this program will function as a learning community. On-campus, you will need to commit at least forty hours of work per week in class and in the studio with your peers, and you will be asked to regularly present work and to engage in critical assessment, in dialog and in writing. During the three-week field-study portion, you will be required to regularly communicate via internet with faculty and your peers through a program web-site and blog.