Photography was used for scientific purposes and a tool of imperial colonialization during the early years of its invention. These two things have helped shaped its history of representation of the human figure. Marginal groups of individuals when they were represented in photography were often presented in a visually limiting and often stereotypical manner. The contemporary mugshot and the passport photo can trace their origins to earlier modes of visual representation such as the colonial postcard. This course will offer students an opportunity to examine this history but also to reimagine and reconstruct representation it through both text and images.
Learning Outcomes:
Learn how the camera was used to shape identity at its invention and still does today
Learn about 19th century photographic processes and their uses
Make images that reframe established modes of cultural and gender identity
Critically analyze historical and contemporary photographs in writing and in class discussions
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Prerequisites:
Prior coursework in photography at Bennington, permission from the instructor. Please contact/e-mail faculty (terryboddie@bennington.edu) to discuss the student's interest for this course and to receive permission.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 4
W 2:10PM - 5:50PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 12
Course Frequency: Once a year
Categories: 4000 , All courses , Four Credit , Fully In-Person , Photography
Tags: Advanced photography , BIPOC , Colonial photograph , LBGTQ , Mugshot photographs , multidisciplinary , portraiture