Spring 2026 Course Search

This discussion-animated, readings-based seminar provides art historical, cultural, and critical contexts for the Visual Arts Lecture Series (VALS). In addition to our ongoing interrogation of the public lecture as such, students present their own work (in any field) and analyze the technical and stylistic aspects of structuring an effective and engaging ‘talk.’ The course provides unique opportunities for interaction with visiting artists, curators, critics, and historians.

An advanced course in sonic contraptions, for students who have already completed significant work in sound, visual design, or project management.  Starting with Collins’ Hardware Hacking, we’ll review soldering, circuit bending (i.e. “tickling the clock”), and associated topics, such as no-input mixing and basic circuit tinkering. We will look at alternative methods of physical sound creation through programming languages and mechanical paradigms such as solenoids and sensors.

Conducted through research that focuses on the development of Japanese subcultures in the Post World War II period, this course poses various critical inquiries about the effects of nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on contemporary global consumer society, visual culture and the production of art. We will also bring into focus the trauma revisited up on Japanese citizens and creators by the recent nuclear disaster of Fukushima.