It is about a century since the birth of abstraction, and its continued survival seems somehow surprising. This course emphasizes the importance of the so-called readymade gesture for recent painters-an attitude to form acknowledging that, even when paint is applied by the hand of the artist, it can never be wholly self-expressive; it will always be a sign borrowed from elsewhere. The focus of this course will be on making and critiquing work by students who are willing to engage in the contemporary possibilities of abstract painting in the digital age. We will explore reproductive technologies, and a variety of supports, materials and locations for painting in addition to handmade gestures. In addition to hands-on "workshopping," we will discuss painting, conceptual and performance art and photography by a variety of artists relevant to our studio practices. Reading materials and suggested exhibitions will be introduced to tease out these ideas for consideration, inspiration and application.
PREREQUISITE: A basic painting course, or equivalent.