JAN 020 - The Selfie: Self-Media in Context and Practice

This course examines the rise of “self-media” (Fausing, 2015) through a rigorous, academically-oriented genealogy of visual representations of the self. We will explore the intertwining of self-identity and self-expression from the lenses of visual cultural studies, art history, anthropology, and photographic production, considering faciality and identity as they have been co-articulated through different epochs, arriving at what we today call the “selfie.” Through detailed readings of peer-reviewed academic articles from this range of disciplines, and applied theoretical and aesthetic analysis and production, this course examines self-portraits from the renaissance through contemporary social media practices. We focus on a wide range of media practices, while discussing the similarities and the differences between the self-portraits made in the past, and “selfies” photographed today. The critical examination of artistic self-presentation will be coupled with practiced-based projects, turning the lens, brush, screen, etc., inward towards an informed examination of self that draws from academic fine arts studio practice.

Instructor(s): David Benin
Email:  djb4@stmarys-ca.edu 
 

Prerequisites & Notes
Prerequisites:  None
Course Fee:  $10.00
 

Credits: 1