University of Massachusetts  Amherst  Department of Art, Architecture and Art History

This class is an introduction to digital imaging as it relates to contemporary photopolymer print practice. While this is a studio course in which we will learn new techniques, the primary focus will be on the imagery created for the photopolymer prints. Through critiques, demonstrations, creative and technical assignments, you will explore issues that are of individual concern to you. Class time will involve a combination of technical presentations, discussions on pertinent issues within the context of the medium, work time in the computer lab for projects, and critiques of class projects.

It is expected that you will produce a strong body of work based on a self-selected theme. The completed projects contained in the Final Portfolio should demonstrate an understanding of digital imaging and an exploitation of the unique qualities that are inherent to the medium of photopolymer gravure.

We will use Mac computers, the imaging software program Adobe Photoshop® CS4 as well as digital cameras, flat bed scanners, and large format Epson inkjet printers to print film positives. There will be in depth instruction and tutorials on the making of photopolymer prints in a printmaking studio. Your gravures will be printed in the traditional intaglio method, using a range of archival rag print papers and both black and color inks.

Attendance and hours spent in the computer lab and print studio outside of class are of paramount importance for success in this class.

Class Meeting Time: TTH 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Studio Location: Mac Digital Studio 016, Studio Arts Building and
Studio Arts Building 010, Print Studio.

In addition to the Mac Digital Studio 016 in the Studio Arts Building, there are OIT computer labs on campus that have the software and peripherals that you need for this class. The Digital Print Center, SAB 001, has 4 Mac computer stations, slide, flatbed and film scanners, and related peripherals including a 24" Epson 7600 and a 44" Epson 9880 archival printer.
A list of other lab locations and their operating hours this semester can be found here. And remember that the Learning Commons in the Library is open 24 hours/day, with computers that have the software you need for this class.