ART 1490 - Digital Fabrication I

Goals: This course builds the foundation for emerging artists and makers to effectively and meaningfully apply digital fabrication tools and workflows to their creative practice. The course aims to demystify the technology and empower students to make things with a strong do-it-yourself mindset that incorporates research, prototyping, problem solving, feedback, and iteration. Students employ a range established and emerging tools to engage with 3D and 4D art forms, such as kinetics, interactivity, and audio-visual media to create tools, devices, and multimedia artworks.

Content: Students will gain introductory level experience with 2D/3D design, CAD and CAM software, single board computers, 3D printers, CNC machines, and other digital fabrication tools. Students will learn basic electronics, programming, and design skills through rapid prototyping, soldering electronic circuits, interfacing sensors and actuators with microcontrollers, building multimedia software applications, and using digital fabrication techniques to manufacture art objects and human interface devices. Students will learn the fundamental terms, technologies, workflows, and research practices necessary for developing novel and compelling multimedia artworks. Students will undergo a regular process of peer feedback and group critique to develop and improve their artwork. Students may also work collaboratively with other art classes, like sculpture, to produce multimedia installations and metal cast objects.

Taught: Annually

Credits: 4