Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to darkroom practices associated with analogue photography. It develops upon the skills and knowledge of photomedia imaging by providing a focus upon creative image production through 'manipulated' photography approaches. Students will develop their understanding and application of darkroom-based photography and the exploration of the materiality of the photographic "medium". Students will have the opportunity to explore a range of printing techniques (i.e. black and white, colour and alternative processes) and mixed media.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will:

1. have a sound practical and critical understanding of photography and the borders it shares with other art forms;
2. have competence and understanding of the operations associated with darkroom-based photography, including the principles of photography as print media and the technical principles of print production (i.e. darkroom processes and techniques, contrast and colour controls);
3. apply appropriate Occupational Health and Safety practice to studio operations at all times;
4. be aware of the print-based approaches associated with 'manipulated' photography, exploring the materiality of the photographic 'medium' (including an awareness of the historical basis and contemporary application of these ideas), utilizing advanced black and white processes, colour photography and a range of alternative processes (i.e. assorted emulsion preparations, Polaroid, photocopy) and mixed media (including the relation of photographic imagery towards its ad-mixture with other disciplines and approaches);
5. understand photography as a visual language applied through producing photographic works suitable for folio presentation and developing ideas and imagery relating to projects in other studio areas;
6. display an increasingly personalized artistic expression and sophisticated creative photomedia imaging with a view towards either specialisation or application of the media within other studio disciplines;
7. understand and be able to apply the rules of occupational health and safety appropriate to the unit of study.

Assessment

Exercises: 30%. Project: 50%. Journal: 20%.

Chief examiner(s)

Peta Clancy

Contact hours

12 hours per week including: one 1 hour lecture plus 3 tutorial hours and 8 independent study hours per week

Prerequisites

Either PHO1203 or VIS1111 and OHS1000

Co-requisites

Either PHO1203 or VIS1111 and OHS1000