HNRS 229-01: Composing the Body

In this course, you will study and research composition for the human body and its environment, placing and shaping the body in juxtaposition or in relation to specific and chosen spaces. We will look at both time-based art forms and still images and create works that utilize compositional elements of space and time found in the visual arts of painting and photography as well as dance and installation art. The focus of this course will be the formal elements that inform the aesthetics of composition, noticing how these basic compositional elements create tension, drama and meaning and can point to content that is inherent in the form. You will create compositional works in video and movement in several different compositional assignments. The use of text as a prompter of and inspiration for movement also will be investigated. The final project will be the creation of a site-specific movement/performance work for a chosen environment on the Bryn Du Estate (a publicly owned space in Granville) that will be presented at the end of the semester. You will be responsible for the publicizing of the event, as well as the production elements of sound, costume and lighting. No experience in dance necessary, but an interest in and curiosity about the body as the subject of creative work is essential.

Term: Fall 2009

Credits: 4

Fulfills: GE Requirement in Fine Arts (A)

Cross-listed: DANC 284-01

Prerequisite: Coursework in the arts is preferable but not required

Meeting times: 11:30-13:20 TF

Instructor: Sandra Mathern-Smith