#1. Media/Social Critique
Because digital imaging is used in the production of media and advertising, it is particularly well suited for artistic critiques, parody or satire of these arenas. We will look at artists who are using digital tools to turn the tables on advertising, hype, consumer culture and the authority of the media. You will then create your series of 3 artworks, which function as a commentary or critique of the media - or related societal issue. An early precedent for working in this manner would be the German artist John Heartfield, who collaged photographs and magazines together (photomontage) to create anti-fascist artwork/propaganda during the 1930's. He was re-using media in order to create a new message; one which was not the dominant message of the time.
Related Artist links:
- Matt Siber - Untitled project and Floating Logo project
- Ron English - "Popaganda" artwork
- Word Perhect - by Tomoko Takahashi - critiquing the tyranny of Word Perfect.
- Barbara Kruger # 1 | Kruger #2
- Genochoice - create your own genetically healthy child online!
- Heath Bunting - Own, Be Owned Or Remain Invisible
- Irational.org's Technologies to the People Video Collection website
- ®TMark, Inc - An activist artists' network utilizing the corporate model to achieve controversial projects without risking personal liability.
- John Heartfield - anti-fascist artist of the 1930's and co-inventor of photomontage.
- “All Your Base” video made from many photoshop images critiquing corporate branding.
- Michael Ensdorf #1
- Greg Boozell
- Evolution Control Committee - "Copyright violation for the nation"
- Illegal Art Exhibition
- Adbusters - Culture Jammers Headquarter
Related student work:
• IMPORTANT INFORMATION about turning in each art assignment in this class •
Before the start of class on the date of each critique, you must upload 3 separate, high-quality jpeg images that are each at least 2000 pixels in either the width or height. Label each of your final image files with the project number, followed by your last name, then version # (for example: 1Smith_v1, 1Smith_v2 and 1Smith_v3). These images are to be uploaded to the appropriate assignment dropbox folder in Carmen. In case of file error problems you are also required to bring a backup of your files to class on a CD or USB drive.If you used any source image files that are not your own, you must also upload a text file that explains where each came from and includes image permissions for images that are not explicitly copyright free. This is to ensure that you are not violating copyright law by misusing images that do not belong to you.
ASSIGNMENTS WILL BE EVALUATED BASED ON THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:
• CONCEPT - idea, intention and meaning.
Does the artwork clearly communicate something to other viewers? 25%
• CREATIVITY - originality of thought and expression.
Does the artwork show innovation and uniqueness? Did the artist solve the given assignment problem in an expected or unexpected way? 25%• COMPOSITION - arrangement and organization of elements.Has the artist carefully considered elements such as balance, proportion, texture, color, shape, and positive/negative space? 25%
• CRAFTSMANSHIP - attention to detail.
Does the artist skillfully manipulate the images? Are all details carefully finished and/or intentional-looking? 25%