The Bay Area is home to a vibrant and diverse art scene, fueled by thousands of creative artists working in a wide range of media – and with an impressive array of interests. At the same time local and national pressures present formidable challenges to artists. This course will explore the range of environments artists inhabit and animate.

Working collaboratively, students will conduct public digital humanities research creating online multimedia mobile websites that highlight artist-centered organizations vital to the Area’s culture. Hands-on technical demonstrations workshops will focus on audio, video and photography production using smart phones. Central to the class will be discussion of best practices for engagement – including the art and craft of interviews and approaches to documentary.

Seminar activities will include short reading and writing assignments, media screenings, field trips to artists’ organizations, artist studios, museums and galleries, and in-class and on-site presentations by arts activists and civic leaders.

A culminating public launch event is also planned.

There are no prerequisites for the class and is open to majors in Art History and American Studies and non-majors in all disciplines.

This course fulfills the following Major requirements: Geographical area (C) and Chronological period (III).

By permission of the instructor. Interested students should add themselves to the waitlist and send a brief statement of interest to jon.winet@gmail.com.