1) Explore new ways of thinking about art and its roles in society.
This course has altered many of my basic ideas of what art is and how it fits in to our culture. Genres like creative placemaking have made me reassess the traditional notion that art only exists in the confines of a studio, gallery or museum.
2) Analyze the philosophies and thought processes of leaders in the arts field.
Many of Becker’s readings challenged and changed many of my perspectives regarding the arts. His concept of the art world and how it is shaped particularly intrigued me. His contention that art is created not just by the individual with the paintbrush but instead by all of its participants really resonated with me.
3) Openly receive different types of pedagogy and brainstorm ways to apply transmedia in my own teaching.
Learning through transmediations is unquestionably a more effective route than the standard textbook to powerpoint approach. Learning by remixing material in to different mediums solidifies concepts and is really reflective of today’s content saturated culture. When possible I have incorporated transmediations in my own teaching.
4.) Enhance my understanding of the impact of the arts on various demographics and cultural idioms.
The concept of Florida’s “creative class” particularly intrigued me in that I find many of his contentions to be true. I also really enjoyed learning about how Theaster Gates positively influenced struggling South Chicago and Gary, Indiana neighborhoods by reviving forgotten structures and creating arts access and inclusivity.
5.) Actively engage in meaningful conversation with other classmates and overcome introspective tendencies.
For the most part I feel I was an active participant in the discussion sessions. I learned from other students input as well as how my own ideas were received.
6.) Challenge my fundamental opinions and perceptions of the purpose of art.
This is perhaps my greatest takeaway from the course as my perceptions are slowly shifting of my very definition of “art”. In defining art I have looked for content that is intentionally removed from social norms and status quo. This course has opened my eyes to how this content can be placed back in to society and made accessible to a wider audience and community.