Ewa A. Trebacz
Taught by UW faculty and visiting artists, engineers, scientists, and humanities scholars.
SPACE AND VIDEO. This class is an upper-level seminar focusing on selected immersive visual technologies and their applications to experimental art, addressing the following topics: - Fundamentals of 3D vision and perception of depth - Designing optical illusions and spatial ambiguities using monocular and binocular depth cues - Integrating video, light and architecture in installation works - Introduction to stereoscopy and an overview of the most popular 3D display systems and technologies, including current standards of Digital Cinema
Student learning goals
Explore the subject of spatial illusions and visual perception of depth through 3 practical assignments
Identify and discuss relevant works of art in the context of historical precedence and contemporary practices
Read and discuss critical and technical literature on related topics
Create and present a proposal for an original work of art together with a very well developed proof of concept
General method of instruction
The course will include both theoretical and practical components. Instruction methods will combine lectures, presentations, discussions and workshops. Students will be expected to read and discuss selected literature on this subject and to engage in discussions of existing works of art. Students will also work on 2-3 practical assignments and the final project, utilizing immersive technologies and exploring spatial illusions.
Open to all students with basic familiarity with video editing techniques and knowledge of image and video editing software (Photoshop, Final Cut Pro and/or After Effects.) Students with experience in 3D computer modeling and animation software are especially encouraged to enroll.
Class assignments and grading
Outcome: 2-3 practical assignments and the final project.
Examples of practical assignments: a) Spatial ambiguities: an impossible structure or spatial illusion (still image) b) Depth in 2D: an interpretation of 3-dimensional space using selected 2D depth cues (video/still) c) Inverted reality: create a pair of stereoscopic and pseudo-stereoscopic images
The Final Project will consist of a proposal of a work of art (such as an installation work, an experimental video/film) with a working proof of concept. It can be substituted by a research project.
Grading will be based on performance in the class (participation in discussions, reading etc.), 2-3 smaller assignments and the final project. Considering the time limitations and amount of knowledge students must acquire, a complete work of art would not be required, but a very well developed proof of concept with the expectation that it could be turned into a publically presented project in the future. The scope of each final project would be discussed individually with the instructor and the final examination would be the project presentation and critique.