DXARTS 442 - 3 Space II: Computer Motion and Advanced Techniques

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 - TBD

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, 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

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

dxarts442a_wi08@u.washington.edu

DISCUSSION LIST

There is a discussion list for the class to be used by instructor, TA, and students for questions, announcements, tips, techniques, etc. If the instructor or TA is not available to answer your questions please post them to this discussion list for assistance. The list can by accessed at this address:

Discussion List URL

PROJECTS

Project One - Cinematic Installation Illustration.

Project Two - Slice of Spacetime

HOMEWORK

There will be homework assignments to help you gain technical skill and broaden your understanding of experimental 3D graphics while preparing you for the major assignments.

READING MATERIALS

The Art of Maya, 4th Edition, Autodesk Press - Available at the UW bookstore.

Various articles and excerpts from journals, conferences, and books covering topics such as critical theory, experimental new media art, and computer graphics available online and through library eRes.

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.

CHECKOUT PROCEDURE

You can reserve the Gnomon DVDs online at: https://depts.washington.edu/dxarts/dBx.
Click on "Reservation Pages". From there you will be able to reserve dvds for 24 hour check-out.

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.

GRADING

Participation is worth 20% of your grade, including lab time, workshops, discussions, critiques, and active engagement with all aspects of the class.
The art project assignments are weighted approximately 50% total, each being worth 25%.
Homeworks are worth 30% cumulatively.
Late work will not be accepted.

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.