The goal of this course is to facilitate a shift from teacher-assigned work to self-directed, self-motivated research and art production. The process of making art will be our focus as much as the final outcome. Therefore, we will have a combination of self-assigned artwork, creative exercises designed to expand your skills of research and exploration, and technical demonstrations. We will examine the creative process and look at the diverse, esoteric, and idiosyncratic ways in which artists find inspiration. You will be encouraged to assemble a unique constellation of interests that posits new associations untenable in other fields. We will also closely examine the place that your artwork assumes in contemporary and historical milieus. The technical skills to be introduced in this class include view-camera (4-×-5") and medium-format photography and strobe lighting. Other techniques and skills will be introduced as needed. With the freedom of self-directed work comes the responsibility and commitment to work hard on a regular basis.