James Ewing
A-4 Warren and Parkland, 2003
Digital print
44 x 12 inches
Departmental Philosophy
The Photography Department at Cranbrook cultivates artists to practice in a manner that is both non-traditional and interdisciplinary. Critical discussions originate from issues in contemporary photography that are inspired by documentary, tableau, or performative practices. Using these dialogues as a starting point, we look to historic as well as contemporary works to assess the direction of the medium. We evaluate production value, content and its formal translation, and the nature of practice as we establish models of critique and production that can be sustained beyond the academy and into the profession.
Brett Kallusky
Viaggio, 2005
Digital print
2 x 4 feet
Program
Paramount in the creation of a photograph is that the artist remains true to their inspiration and personal vision. Achieving this goal is central to the Photography Department at Cranbrook. Students are challenged to remain focused on this vision and resist the allure of the expected and the morass of mass appeal. This quest can be both exciting and challenging. The Photography Department seeks to develop and define each student’s unique perspective. The course of study involves group and individual critiques with the Artist-in-Residence and guest critics. The ability to translate perceptions about works into language is a skill sharpened by practice in these critiques. Seminars in literature, philosophy, theory, and criticism assist students in establishing parallels between art and other fields. Other seminars explore photography's relation to the broad spectrum of visual art, with special emphasis placed on its relation to the history of cinema, collage, and photomontage. Student research papers and presentations are an integral part of the program, as are visiting artists, departmental and interdepartmental collaborations, individual meetings with the instructor, and field trips. Recent field trip destinations include New York, Germany, London, and Amsterdam. Inter-disciplinary study is encouraged to facilitate new dialogue and fresh perspective. This highly structured and close-knit program also requires that students be self-directed and motivated. This ensures an element of independence that is fundamental to artistic development. The schedule allows ample studio time and space.
Julie Roberts
Blinking Hour 2001
Image from video installation