After Image: Painting and Photography

Instructor: Lisa Blas

Utilizing the collection of ephemeral material and visual data, we will investigate the collision of the historical and modern-day landscape.

The camera will be a central component to this course. During regular field trips, we will document our environment--paying close attention to the color and spatial relationships as they exist in local markets, graffiti, alleyways, shadows, neon signage, billboards and other spaces that suggest modern and daily life. In addition, rubbing transfers of both the surface and textures of historical sites will be taken, using vellum paper and pencil. Building upon this information of present/past, we will construct works based on the post-modern landscape. This could take the form of a series of photographs or paintings, depending on each artist’s medium/material specificity. Discussion on contemporary art practice, composition, local and artificial color, paint applications/techniques, the photographic image and point of view will be part of our daily sessions. Group critique and interaction in the studio will provide a rich source of feedback, fostering new modes of thinking and methodologies.

With Italy as a stand-in for Western civilization, what could be a more fascinating backdrop to examine the interstitial spaces----otherwise neglected, yet rich in possibility.

Click here to see examples of Lisa Blas' work.
Click here to see examples of Visual Arts faculty work.