In this class students will work with their specific thesis project in the creation and production of a publication.

These group critiques are the focal point of student activity in each semester. Guided by prominent figures in the visual arts, and assisted by their peers, students discuss and concentrate on producing a coherent body of work that best reflects their individual talents and challenges the boundaries of their media.

This lab class will introduce students to the current state of analogue practices. Through a series of demonstrations and assignments students will become familiar with advanced analogue technology in black and white photography. We will review the zone system, roll film and large format sheet film processing options, use of esoteric films and developers and the integration of a methodology to approach this in their own work.

This class will continue the work begun in Analogue Darkroom 1 and build upon techniques examined in that class. In addition we will concentrate on print production from conception to finish. The ever-changing technology of materials will be addressed and topics such as mural production, alternative processes, unique toning formulas, and postproduction presentation techniques will be explored through demonstration, lecture, and hands on practice.

This class will include readings, critiques, and discussions examining critical theory in the digital age. Artistic conception, workflow and production have expanded dramatically with the introduction of digital media techniques. This course will explore the relationships between these points and the paradigm shift in how creative conception and workflow is interpreted in this new era.

In these workshops students will learn new techniques for working in Photoshop, Lightroom and a multitude of other new software programs. In addition, theory and practice of color management will be covered and students will have the opportunity to integrate these tools into their digital skill set.

In this initial class students will, through lecture and readings, be exposed to ideas of how to create and execute a project. Topics include time management, project inspiration, project proposals, and schedules for the production of the work.

In these seminars students will interact with leading professionals in the field (curators, gallery directors, picture agency directors, and others) to cover a wide range of topics including museum/gallery perspectives in the United States and internationally, editorial and contractual issues for clients, book-publishing issues, pricing artwork, networks, websites and blogs.

This seminar acquaints students with contemporary photographic/art practices. It examines specific models and matrixes that define current trends. Topics will include: topologies/mythical realities, art/photography and the social milieu, photography/sculpture/art and documentary practice.

This course is a survey of books produced worldwide during the first part of the 20th century. We will review a selection of seminal works, critique the photographic theme and content, design issues and production quality. In addition we will examine the integration of technology during this period

This course will continue the survey of books produced worldwide during the second half of the 20th century. We will review a selection of seminal works, critique the photographic theme and content, design issues and production quality. In addition we will examine the impact of emerging technologies in the thematic topics of books. Subjects discussed will include: editing, photo sequencing, and all aspects of design.

This final class devoted to the photographic book will examine the current state of affairs in the market and the emergence of new technologies, which allows individuals to “create” their own unique publications. In conjunction with this class students will research the possible avenues for publication: commercial publishers, specialty presses, on-demand book production and small–run book publishing. Topics examined will include: editing, photo sequencing, and all aspects of design, and binding.(The Photographic Book 1, 2 and 3 courses are in preparation/conjunction of the actual production of a book for the student thesis and graduation exhibition.)

The thesis project is the culmination of the MFA program. Its exhibition format, accompanied by written documentation, explains the historical precedents, evolution and generation of the project.