DXARTS 443 - 3 Space III: Special Topics in 3D Computer Arts

MW 9:30-12:20, Raitt 105
Instructor - Assistant Professor Stephanie Andrews, stephnet@u.washington.edu
Office hours - TBD

TA - Max Keene, maxelk@u.washington.edu
Office hours -

SYLLABUS

Please note that this is a living document and subject to modification as the course progresses.

DESCRIPTION

Further investigation into 3D visualization for experimental artists. Building on foundations established in 3 Space 1 & 2, methods are introduced for orchestrating movement including deformation, dynamics, and rigging. Techniques such as particle systems, simulation, and scripting are also covered, giving students experience using advanced tools for envisioning and creating original artwork. Prereq 3 Space 1 & 2

This course is specifically designed for the Center for Digital Arts and Experimental Media and it's goals. To that end, narrative character animation in the style produced for popular films is heavily de-emphasized as that subject is being expertly covered by the Animation Research Lab in CSE

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Willingness to experiment and take genuine artistic risks.
Ability to be resourceful and seek out help when needed.
Participation in all class activities (discussions, workshops, labs, etc.) is very important and will be monitored closely.
Your participation in group critiques is vital to the experience of the class and your evolution as an artist. Each student will be required to give a verbal presentation of their work as well as critique the work of their classmates.
You are encouraged to share knowledge amongst yourselves during lab times - remember, there's alot you can learn from each other. Please be respectful, however, if someone is working hard and needs to concentrate.
Taking notes in class is encouraged and will help you remember what you've learned when you are working on your own time.
Please do not read email or surf the web during lectures and discussions - it's distracting to all of us!

EMAIL LIST

dxarts443a_sp08@u.washington.edu

PROJECTS AND GRADING

Haptic Sculpture (10%): Create a sculptural environment constructed with the haptic modeling interface. The work is intended to be experienced by touch alone. The 'viewer' will not see the objects you've created. Rather, they will explore the environment by interacting with the piece through the haptic feedback pen. This assignment is meant to challenge your skills as an artist, by creating a piece that does not rely on visual images to convey it's meaning.
Project Proposal Presentation (10%): In class presentation and constructive critique. Describe your final project idea in detail, including visual or other media reference, areas of technique development and research, conceptual focus, production process, and project timeline.
Midterm Proposal Presentation (10%): In class presentation and constructive critique. Show images, revised project timeline, research discoveries, etc.
Progress Blog: (10%): You are required to keep up a blog that documents your weekly progress on your final project. Use the blog to catalog your research, mark your progress, reflect on the development of your piece, and discuss related issues.
Final Project: (50%): A creative work of your design that utilizes 3D computer graphics as a core component. The project can involve other techniques and formats as needed to realize the piece. Collaboration with others is acceptable with instructor approval. You could work with others in the class, or potentially outside the class.
Participation: (10%): Including involvement in critiques, utilization of in class work time, responsiveness to feedback, aiding other students with problem solving, etc.

EVALUATION

Integration of artistic and conceptual goals with technical skills learned.
Contribution to the intellectual and artistic forum of the class.
Amount of time spent and depth of engagement with material.
Ability to use the techniques introduced in class in an innovative and inventive manner for creative assignments.

SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS

Gnomon Maya DVD series available for student checkout.

Screenings of videos, and internet media documenting artists and working methods.

Descriptions and further information about the DVDs available to you for checkout can be found at www.thegnomonworkshop.com. Access the titles by clicking the "Digital DVDs" drop-down menu.

POLICIES

No smoking in the classroom or building. No eating, or drinking in the lab.
You are responsible for your data! Back it up, store it in multiple locations, burn it to a disk, do whatever you have to do to ensure it's integrity.
If you have a disability that you think may impact your participation in this class, please contact Disabled Student Services. Every effort will be made to accommodate your needs.

CLASS FORMAT

Work and reading from last session including discussion, critique, student presentations.
Presentation of new materials including lectures, workshops, and other media material
Lab time with TA to work on tutorials, homework, and/or assignments.

There will be a small breaks during class as needed. Days where one of the major assignments are due most of the class time is devoted to discussion and critique of work.