Camera and the Body: Peculiar Ways of Knowing

Course Description

Summary

This hands-on course co-taught by dance faculty Elena Demyanenko and guest video-artist Ray Sun will utilize moving camera exercises, selected film screenings and improvisational games to give students an opportunity to expand and refine their own visual sensibilities, with the goal of creating collaborative multi-media projects. We will explore and analyze the creative choices available and practical tools needed when we instigate an interactive relationship between camera and movement, filmmaker and performer. Together we will attempt to develop a common language that encompasses new systems of communicating, problem solving, and making. Coursework will incorporate Isadora, a software for real time manipulation of the audio/video feeds, to deliver more complex, integrated multi-media scenarios. Throughout the term, student work will be designed collaboratively, screened and critiqued. All students will be involved in working with video equipment and moving as performers. Video students should have taken Introduction to Video or should be taking it concurrently. Each dance student will be working closely in collaboration with a video partner. Previous experience with Isadora is not required.