CAR 132: Procedural Composition
A new course in the expanding curriculum of the Computer Art program within the Department of Transmedia at Syracuse University, Procedural Composition is an introduction to creating visual art through procedural thinking and programming techniques. Using the java-based application known as Processing, students gain the ability to think abstractly, problem solve, and express ideas in ways that are enhanced and amplified through various facets of computer code. A valuable addition to this course is the cross-discipline collaboration with the Mathematics department from the College of Arts and Sciences. Throughout the semester, special topics covering math techniques directly applicable to class assignments are presented by guest lecturers.   [Class web site]   [Student work]

CAR 231: Introduction to Computer Art
Introduction to Computer Art, a studio art course offered by the Department of Transmedia at Syracuse University, explores the fundamentals of making art with computers in regards to specifics of time and interactivity. Students learn aspects of the most common applications used by digital media artists, including: Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Flash and Director as well as the Macintosh operating system. The computer is explored like any other art medium and serves as a tool for creation. Although there is a strong technical introduction to multiple software applications, emphasis remains on the creation and development of conceptual works of artistic expression.   [Student work]

CAR 232: Introduction to 3D Animation
A continuation of the undergraduate Computer Art BFA program within the Department of Transmedia at Syracuse University, Introduction to 3D Animation covers basic animation principles with primary focus on modeling practices within a three dimensional computer environment. Students create digital compositions in a fine art context using Newtek's LightWave modeling and layout software. CAR 232 focuses on the concepts, aesthetics, processes, and practice of creating 3D computer graphics. Methods of instruction consist of lectures, demonstrations, film/video presentation, studio assignments, in-class lab time, and group critiques.   [Student work]

CAR 233: 2D Computer Gaming
Computer Art 233 covers the fundamentals of two-dimensional game design and programming as a means to strategically communicate numerous topics of cultural importance and individual expression. Students will explore syntax and computational methods of using Flash ActionScript 3.0 associated with the practice of programming, user interaction, interface design, project management, time management, documentation and teamwork in the creation of 2D computer games delivered primarily through the web browser.    [Class web site]

CAR 430: Computer Art Seminar
Computer Art 430, is an advanced level course that provides the upper level Computer Art BFA student the opportunity to explore the experimental, media art artistic practices in order to realize an ambitious studio project utilizing computer and electronic technologies. Students will gain valuable experience through the entire creative process including concept development, proposal writing, production scheduling, strategy, research, presentation, documentation, exhibition, relevant artistic techniques and technological necessity. Weekly discussions on a variety of art, cultural and media topics will occur, as will presentations of project development.    [Class web site]

CAR 530: Physical Computing
Designed to explore basic HCI (human-computer interaction), Computer Art 530 specifically explores how humans communicate through computers yet is most concerned with the methods in which humans express themselves physically. Students examine how physical computing interprets and converts human input into data through microcontrollers which allows the artist to express ideas through numerous sensory stimulus, natural curiosity, instincts and energy released from the body. In addition to the introduction of necessary software, hardware and languages such as Max/MSP/Jitter, Processing and ActionScript, the Teleo, Make and Arduino microcontrollers, associated modules/sensors/motors and basic electronics are also covered. Recent developments within the art world concerning physical computing and its contributions to social awareness, activism and cultural reflection are also discussed.     [Class web site]

CAR 530: Web-based Art
Computer Art 530: Web-based Art, studies the use of the Internet and authoring of web pages to create works of self-expression. Although technical topics such as low-resolution optimization, motion graphics, vector graphics, raster graphics, HTML/CSS/JavaScript programming and domains/servers will be covered, the primary goal of the course is to utilize these techniques as an interdisciplinary practice for art making. CAR 530 is designed to transform numerous concepts such as identity, narrative, activism and formalism and into web-based art forms through numerous software applications including Photoshop, Fireworks, Flash and Dreamweaver.     [Summer 2008]


SA 161: Photography I
Studio Art 161: Photography I, is a course at Cazenovia College designed to provide students with the basic technical skills and conceptual background of black and white photography within an artistic context. Students learn basic 35mm SLR (single lens reflex) manual camera operation, film exposure and processing, printing techniques, darkroom procedures and edict, photography presentation and artistic critique. Students will also improve the ability to analyze and interpret photography within an historical and contemporary approach.  [Student Work]

PHO 111: Digital Photography
This non-majors course offered at Onondaga Community College is designed to cover the basics of digital photography. Students are introduced to the digital camera and its functions offering a better understanding of the terminology, requirements and limitations of digital imagery.  The course will cover issues of composition, design, color theory as well as history of photography to help students work creatively with their digital cameras. Students will be introduced to image editing software for color correction, image manipulation, and digital output. Projects will involve a range of subject matter in an artistic context including portraiture, landscape, form and photo illustration.   [Student Work]

Web Design I: Introduction to Dreamweaver
The basic principles of web design and production using Macromedia Dreamweaver is covered in this class offered by Light Work/Community Darkrooms. Students learn the challenges of web design, how to plan a web site project, become familiar with the Dreamweaver environment, and create web pages using tables, importing graphics, formatting text, adding links, and uploading files to a remote server.

Web Design II: Expanding Dreamweaver
Also offered by Light Work/Community Darkrooms, Web Design II expands the student's knowledge of web design and Macromedia Dreamweaver by developing web sites further than just the basics. Students learn advanced web design techniques such as navigation strategies, accessibility, effective use of media, CSS, forms, browser detection, meta data and DHTML.