ALTERNATIVE CONTEXTS:
SITE-RESPONSIVE INTERVENTIONS 

Spring 2023 | Meeting Time: M/W 2:30-5:20pm | ART 110

Allora y Calzadilla, Chalk, 1998/2019

Professor: Whitney Lynn (she/her)
Office Hours: M/W 10:30-11, or by appointment (email to schedule)
Contact: Utilize the direct messaging tool in Canvas or post a question in the Q&A Forum

 COURSE DESCRIPTION 

This course will explore possibilities for producing works that engage with non-traditional exhibition spaces (outside of the conventional gallery system/"white cube"environments). We will consider how the spatial, social and historical contexts of a site impact the reception of the art, and will examine the historical lineage of art interventions as a means to develop contemporary forms.

Focusing on experimental and conceptual approaches, students will work both independently and collaboratively to produce their own site-responsive interventions, creating new artworks designed to interact with existing structures or situations.

 LEARNING GOALS 

At the end of the course, you should be able to:

• Define and understand key terms such as site-specific, site-responsive, intervention and demonstrate knowledge of contemporary artists working within these frameworks of art production
• Analyze and interpret art (your own and others) with consideration of how site/context impacts the reading of the work
• Produce site-responsive artworks independently and collaboratively 
• Demonstrate capacity to write, speak, and think about site-responsive art and participate in discussions and debates about artworks and related ideas

 GENERAL EXPECTATIONS 

This is an advanced 400 level class -- for many of you, it will be the last art course you take before graduating. The expectation is that each class member will dedicated a significant amount of time and attention to their work.

This course is worth 5 units of credit, which means you should expect to spend an additional 6 hours per week working on class assignments, outside of class time. Create a schedule that includes studio/research time to complete weekly assignments and to aim to spend some time every day devoted to your work. When there isn’t a class in session in 110, remember it is an open studio space (potentially your studio space). You can also work in the Link Space on the 2nd floor, or check out The Room or the Skinny for installation projects (talk to IVA Tech Sean Lockwood for info on how to book).

Required Materials

• Notebook/Sketchbook: Plan to bring this with you every class and keep it out/open to write down names of artists, recommended readings, things to watch, comments that stand out, etc. During critiques, write notes and translate those notes when you write your post-critique reflection. This is non-negotiable -- everyone in class needs to have a notebook for each class session (a physical notebook, not a phone.)
• Technology: You will need to have access to a device that connects to the internet so that you can access email and Canvas. All course details and materials will be posted on our Canvas course site. Students can borrow equipment and access other learning technology from the SoACC and STLP.
• Individually determined materials for projects. Remember, art doesn’t have to be expensive to produce. You can work with found objects and transform everyday materials, you can buy bulk art materials and split the costs with a classmate, you can use your phone to create video, photo and sound works, or you can check out amazing technology — for free — from school (visit Sean in 010 for portable projectors, speakers, karaoke machines, and more...). And don’t forget that you can create powerful works of performance art by using nothing more than your own body -- don't let lack of funds limit your ability to create ambitious work.

Coursework

All assignments and their due dates are listed on Canvas.

Follow the weekly Modules to stay up-to-date with class activities.

General Assignment Tips:

Resist the urge to procrastinate! Give yourself enough time to develop ideas and make any necessary revisions. During your designated work times, make a priority list of tasks and remove distractions. For critique dates, obtain necessary off-site permissions as soon as possible if you plan to install outside of Room 110. 

If perfectionism is sabotaging your ability to get to work, recalibrate your goals  and give yourself permission to move forward. We value experimentation in this class — and true experiments sometimes fail. It’s better to be ambitious and take a risk than to play it safe and not push your work forward.

If you are feeling stuck, don't hesitate to set up time to meet with me during designated work times, or during office hours.

Participation

The importance of engaging in class events, activities and discussions can not be overstated. Our class is a learning community and each member plays a critical role. Our goal is to creative an atmosphere that encourages collaboration and values individual perspective and experience. Showing up and listening is foundational to our collective success.

Of course, if you are sick, stay home. Make sure to let me know in advance, and contact classmates if you are working on a group project. Same goes if you are experiencing an emergency that prevents you from coming to class. Please be honest and don’t skip class unless it is absolutely necessary as it is impossible to “make up” a class built around active participation and discussion. Excessive absences will impact your individual learning, as well as our class community.

Phones and Devices:

Phones/laptops/tablets may be used to present or document work. 

However, out of respect for each other, and as part of our commitment to being fully present during our dedicated time together, keep your phones and other devices in airplane mode and stored away from view during class discussions and activities.

There will be times when a class member might request assistance in documenting their work, but do not use your phone to record any person or their work without permission.

Grading

Evaluation:

For each assignment, you will receive one of two grades, Complete (Pass) or Incomplete (Fail). If you do not satisfactorily complete an assignment, you will be given an opportunity to revise/redo the work.  Work must satisfy all listed assignment criteria in order to receive a Complete grade.

Feedback will be provided through in-class critiques and/or written comments. If at any point you desire additional feedback, do not hesitate to make an appointment to meet during office hours.

Grading System Rationale

This assessment model is designed to encourage experimentation and creative risk-taking, without the fear of punitive grading. The goal is to place the emphasis on learning, and to shift away from an obsession over points, or concerns regarding subjective evaluation.

Please note: this approach requires that each person in the class takes charge of their own learning, while simultaneously contributing to the overall class dynamic – which is an enormous responsibility. To be truly successful in this class, you can't just play a points game to get a good grade. Instead, you must consider how to embrace each assignment as a learning opportunity, and shape each assignment into an activity that is meaningful to your learning and growth as an artist and individual.

My goal is for you to tell the story of your learning through the work you produce — not through the grade you earn. Remember that after you graduate you won't have anyone to give you assignments, so the earlier you stop thinking like a student and start thinking like an artist, the better.

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Building Access + Key Box Codes
The Art Building is open from 8 AM to 6:20 PM on Monday through Friday.
After Hours building access for students via Husky Card may be requested by completing a
form available on the school website https://art.washington.edu/general-policies

Key Box Code: CRP 
IMPORTANT: Do NOT share the code with anyone else (including other students) to help ensure security.

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Academic Advising and Student Services
Current UW students can schedule Zoom or In Person Advising appointments (schedule online here), or stop by Art Rm 104 for drop-in advising, available Monday - Thursday, 9am - 3pm. Students can also email Advising at uaskart@uw.edu.

Voicing A Concern
At some point in your experience as a student in the School of Art + Art History + Design, you may have a problem that requires help. This could range from conflict with an instructor, to difficulty with a peer, to an experience of discrimination, to an event in the School or beyond that compromises your safety. The information provided on the School’s Voicing A Concern webpage provides guidance
about whom to consult in different situations: https://art.washington.edu/voicing-concern

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Free Seattle Art Museum Admission

1. Login to (or create) your SAM account here

2. Enter  UWSAMIKAT23 in the Promo Code box at the top of the ticketing page (code expires at the end of the quarter; new code will be send at the beginning of each quarter)

3. Choose your ticket date, ticket type, and check out. Your ticket will be emailed to you; print or bring the email on your phone to be scanned at the gallery entrance.

School of Art + Art History + Design Policies

Equal Opportunity

In concurrence with the University of Washington’s core values, and in compliance with State and federal regulations, the School of Art + Art History + Design reaffirms its commitment to equal opportunity. The commitment extends to the recruitment of faculty, staff, and students who exhibit a dedication to creative and academic excellence and who demonstrate the ability to work with a diverse spectrum of populations.

Diversity

The School of Art + Art History + Design fosters a respectful, inclusive community that supports creative and critical expression and scholarship amidst a culture that accepts the value of every individual. The School encourages students, faculty, and staff to engage in healthy dialogue and respect the values and global perspectives of a diverse population. The School promotes and encourages a culture of compassion, understanding, and an obligation to respectful discourse in classrooms, meeting rooms, studio spaces, and beyond. The School’s philosophy is reflected in our engagement with community partners and research endeavors locally, nationally, and globally.

Student Code of Conduct

The University of Washington has established rules regarding student conduct. Through the Student Conduct Code, UW students hold themselves to the highest standards of ethics, integrity and accountability. More information at UW Community Standards & Student Conduct. Chapters 209 and 210 in http://www.washington.edu/admin/rules/policies/WAC/478-121 

If you have questions or concerns please contact this office at 206-685-6194 or cssc@uw.edu 

Equipment and Materials Safety

Substances and equipment used in creative processes can be hazardous.

• Enrollment in a class requires students to know, understand, and comply with all safety and equipment use policies for each classroom/studio. 

• Exhaust rooms are mandatory for the use of aerosols. 

Student Health and Wellness

Student health and well-being are important. UW-Seattle offers a wide range of health and wellness services, from exceptional medical care and counseling services to recreation classes, safety resources, peer health advocacy, trainings and more. These can be found at wellbeing.uw.edu

Violence Awareness and Prevention

• Preventing violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation is everyone's responsibility. 

• Call 911 for emergency help.

• Call 206-685-SAFE to report non-urgent threats or concerns.

• Safe Campus: www.washington.edu/safecampus

• Concerns about sexual harassment: https://www.washington.edu/safecampus/harassment-and-sexual-harassment/

• NightRide provides a fare-free safe way for U-Pass members to get home at night: www.washington.edu/facilities/transportation/uwshuttles/NightRide 

• Connect to UW Alert. Register your mobile device to receive instant notification of campus emergencies via text and voice messaging. Sign up at www.washington.edu/alert

Concerns about a course, an individual, or an issue 

• If you have concerns about a course, an individual, or an issue concerning the School of Art + Art History + Design, talk with the instructor in charge of the class as soon as possible.

• If this is not possible or productive, make an appointment with the Director of Academic Advising, 104 Art, 206-543-0646.

Disability Accommodation

To request academic accommodations due to a disability, please contact Student Disability Services, 011 Mary Gates Hall, (206) 543-8924 (V/TTY) or uwdss@u.washington.edu

Your instructor will receive an email outlining your academic accommodations prior to the first day of class. It is a good idea to discuss these accommodations directly with your instructor to ensure that your instructor can help you with your needs.

Class Participation

First day policy: Instructors assume that if you are not present for roll call on the first day of a studio art class you have decided not to remain enrolled. If you miss the first day without permission, it is your responsibility to drop the course. You may contact the instructor in advance and ask for permission to be absent on the first day.

Participation is essential to learning and success in all classes.  If you miss class due to illness or emergency, notify your instructor and set up a timeline to complete missed assignments and exams.

Examination Schedule

Students are required to turn in assignments and take exams based on the timeline provided in the class syllabus.

Final exams are scheduled by the University and cannot be changed. Do not make plans that will prevent you from attending your final exam(s).

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is using the creations, ideas, words, inventions, or images of someone else in your own work without formal acknowledgement or permission. This applies to written papers and research as well as to art, design and architectural images.

Please check with your instructor if you have questions about what constitutes plagiarism.

More information about reporting academic misconduct:  www.uw.edu/cssc/report-it/ 

Copyright

The School regularly displays student art and design in a variety of ways to highlight the quality of our students and their learning.

This is traditional among all art schools and we assume that by participating in UW School classes and activities students have no objection.  

If you have concerns about the use of your work, please contact Academic Advising and Student Services (206-543-0646 or uaskart@uw.edu)

Incomplete Grades

To request an “incomplete” grade a student must have:

• • been in attendance and done satisfactory work through the eighth week of the quarter
  • satisfactory proof for the instructor that the work cannot be completed because of illness or other circumstances beyond their control.
  • More information from the UW Office of the Registrar: registrar.uw.edu/students/incomplete-grades/

Grade Appeal Procedure

If you think the grade you received is incorrect, contact the instructor to discuss your concern.

If not resolved, make an appointment with the Director of Academic Advising, 104 Art, 543-0646.

Materials Fees

All art, design and art history classes have materials fees billed with tuition.

Fee amounts and justifications are listed by class in the quarterly Time Schedule.

These fees cover the purchase of materials, academic support, and equipment provided for students in each class.

Service Animals

The University has a general “no pets” policy in all of its buildings. However, Service Animals are allowed to accompany their handlers while on campus

UW Disability Resources for Students outlines the policies around Service and Emotional Support Animals: depts.washington.edu/uwdrs/current-students/accommodations/housing/service-and-emotional-support-animals/

Lockers

• The School provides lockers and locks to enrolled students. Cost is $12 per quarter.

• Students can rent a locker from the Administration Office, Art 102. The office accepts Husky Card, credit and debit.

• Obey all rules and guidelines printed on the Locker Assignment sheet issued. Failure to do so will prohibit future locker privileges.  

Students must clean out or renew their locker before the last day of finals week each quarter. If lockers are not renewed before the last day of finals, the lock will be changed and items discarded. 

The School is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen property stored in lockers.

Art Building Exhibition Policies

Instructors and students must receive administrative approval at least two weeks in advance to install work in the Art Building.

Read these policies and complete the included application form.

Email the completed form to Tiffany (askartadmin@uw.edu), SoA+AH+D Administrative Services Coordinator, for approval. 

After-Hours Access

ART Building hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 6:20 PM.

Students enrolled in studio classes and accepted SoA+AH+D undergraduate majors and graduate students can have their Husky Cards programmed to access the Art Building after-hours.

• After-hours access is permitted only through the loading dock door facing Chelan Lane,  near the Jacob Lawrence Gallery. Tapping your pre-programmed Husky Card at the terminal grants entry.

• Students may request after-hours access to the Art Building for course-related work by filling out this form. Students will need to use their UW G Suite account to access the application form. Please allow two business days after completing the form for access to be assigned.

• Anyone in the building after hours is responsible for the safety and security of the building. Anyone who allows an unauthorized person into the building or a workspace, props open a door for any reason, or fails to adhere to their studio-specific safety policies risks losing after-hours access to the building.
• Accepted majors and graduate students only need to apply for access once a year for Autumn-Winter-Spring access. Non-majors enrolled in studio classes will only be allowed quarter access and once the quarter is over, their access will expire. The School will reset access for every major at the beginning of summer quarter. 

• UWPD frequently monitors the Art Building after hours to ensure your safety and security. 
• If you are having access issues, visit Art 102 for assistance.

Religious Accommodation

Washington state law requires that UW develop a policy for accommodation of student absences or significant hardship due to reasons of faith or conscience, or for organized religious activities.

The UW’s policy, including more information about how to request an accommodation, is available at Religious Accommodations Policy (https://registrar.washington.edu/staffandfaculty/religious-accommodations-policy/).

Accommodations must be requested within the first two weeks of this course using the Religious Accommodations Request form (https://registrar.washington.edu/students/religious-accommodations-request/)

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Student Health + Wellness Resources:

• UW Counseling Center offers multiple options for students seeking help coping with stress
  and mental health concerns. The Counseling Center is open M - F, 8am - 5pm, 206-543-1240,
  https://www.washington.edu/counseling/
• SafeCampus is dedicated to supporting anyone at the UW dealing with potentially difficult
  or dangerous situations including, but not limited to: resolving conflict, addressing
  concerning & prohibited behaviors, suicide / self harm, relationship violence
  Contact SafeCampus with any issues of concern 24/7 at 206-685-SAFE,
  http://www.washington.edu/safecampus
• Urgent Help Options for medical & mental health are available to students through UW and
  several off-campus organizations: https://wellbeing.uw.edu/mental-health/urgent-help/
• Call 911 in emergency situations. Reminder that emergency services that are
  dispatched also include medical professionals that can assess the situation and
  recommend resources and services.

Covid Health + Safety Information: 
o Covid-19 Prevention Plan for the School of Art + Art History + Design 
o  UW Novel Coronavirus Information
o  View the COVID-19 Public Health Requirements and Guidance Flowchart for information on when to report COVID-19 illness and close contact exposure, when to get tested for COVID-19, and when to stay home.
o  UW Vaccination Policy 
o UW Covid-19 Face Covering Policy