Traces, Mistakes, and Leftovers
S06
Mary Lum
This course is a study of possibilities. Traditionally, drawing has functioned as both preliminary sketch and way of documentation for works of art. How can we extend these notions to include the intangible remnants of our making process? Can the research done before a project, the many mistakes made in the process, or the discards left after completion of an artwork be considered acts of drawing? What happens in the moments when we think we aren’t “working”? Can we analyze our interactions with the world that lead to a certain way of making things and its aftermath? This course investigates ways to approach and leave our work through drawing.

Using their own independent studio work as a base, students collect and analyze the detritus (both physical and conceptual) surrounding the making process. Topics include idea generation and development, the use of memory and reconstruction, and ways of thinking through drawing. There are specific assignments and opportunities for each student to invent his or her own approach to detritus. In class, discussions are complemented by readings, individual meetings, and small group projects. Students are expected to be engaged in another concurrent studio activity and to complete most of their course work outside of class time.