Although based on a set of distinct technical processes, since its disclosure to the world in 1839, photography's identity has remained contested. In this introduction to the history of photography from its earliest manifestations until the present, we will explore the specific physical and conceptual characteristics of the medium as well as the different and at times conflicting contexts in which photographers have lived and worked and in which their images have been used and have come to acquire meaning. We will begin with an introduction to some of the critical tools that have been used to analyze photographs. The rest of the class will be comprised of thematic sections that address different attributes and uses of the medium and will include substantial hands-on demonstrations of photographic processes. Through this organization, students will become familiar with the traditional history and practice of photography as well as more recent critiques that are indebted to larger theoretical concerns surrounding visual representation and cultural production. Since the course is designed with a studio component, students will have the opportunity to work within a lab as well as a classroom setting. Evaluation will be based on two short projects, a midterm, and a take home final exam. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: class discussion, a midterm, a final, and two short papers. No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 30.

Hour: DUGANNE