Reflection + Engagement

This semester students gain vital experiences in working together as an artist collective to put together a group exhibition. The instructor serves as a mentor and resource as students work together in committees (Media and Communications, Hospitality, Gallery Liaison etc.) to execute the exhibition.

Active Participation

We gather for a seminar-style class bi-weekly. Learners are expected to come to class prepared, having read the required readings and completed their artistic work and committee responsibilities. All learners are expected to participate in large group discussion regarding critiques, readings and exhibition tasks.

On alternate weeks class time is dedicated to intensive studio work. During this time the instructor will meet 1 on 1 with individual students. Students who are unprepared to work or are not applying themselves during studio time will be deducted participation points

Weekly Reflection

We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience—John Dewey

Reflection is vital to learning and pursuing a creative life. As you seek out an authentic creative practice this semester you will be invited to spend weekly time in reflection. The reflection provides space for getting to know your practice and your working style. You will engage in a reflection activity each week during class.

Weekly Reflection Prompts:

1. How many hours did you spend on your studio practice?

2. What did you do this week? (list activities)

3. What is energizing your practice?

4. What is sucking life from your practice?

5. Name a goal or focus for the coming week, be specific and realistic.

WEEKLY REFLECTION RUBRIC

Assessment:

Clarity: Response is focused and concise. It responds clearly to the prompts and stays on topic.
Connection to Experience: Response is rooted in the artist/designer’s experience from the week. Uses specific examples.
Depth: Demonstrates self-reflection and self-awareness. Addresses question that arise from artist’s practice.
Goal/Focus: Goal for the coming week is specific, realistic and has a timeline.
Completeness: Responds to all prompts listed.

Committee Work

Students gain vital experiences in working together as an artist collective to put together a group exhibition. The instructor serves as a mentor and resource as students work together in committees (Coordinator, Design and Promotions, Hospitality, Written Communications, Preparator) to execute the exhibition.

30-60 minutes of class time on alternate weeks will be dedicated to committee work. The show coordinator will chair the committee period. During this time committees will report on progress and make collective decisions.

Committees will submit a FINAL REPORT at the end of the semester and assess their own and their colleagues’ performance on committee work.

Senior Studio Committees

Coordinator
The coordinator is elected by the class and is the first official point of contact regarding all aspects of the senior show. Their responsibility is primarily delegation, coordination and facilitation of duties.
- Facilitates committee work time (full class and small group)
- Keeps track of deadlines and ensures committees deliver on responsibilities in a timely manner
- Facilitates group decision making regarding show title, poster design, events etc.
Design and Promotions Committee
- Designs print and web promotional materials
- Works with Shayna Leenstra to ensure that all materials comply to SAMC design standards
- Works with Shayna Leenstra to come up with a timeline for promoting the Senior Show
- Runs social media campaign for the Senior Show
- Coordinates poster distribution on and off campus
Hospitality Committee
- Determines the program for opening reception (in person or virtual)
- Ensures any in-person events are in compliance with covid-19 protocols
- Contacts public health lead for clarification
- Orders food from Sodexho (if applicable)
Written Communications Committee
- Responsible for all written communications regarding the Senior Show. All written communications should be approved by the Writing and Communication Committee prior to publication
- Edits and compiles artist statements, bios and any other documents related to the publicity of the Senior Show
- Writes the group exhibition statement in consultation with the class
- Writes any “blurbs” required for the Design and Promotion Committee’s social media campaign
- Compiles, formats and edits labels (artist, title, media, date etc.)
- Writes press release
Preparator Committee
- Determines the amount of space available for each student
- Maps out show layout on the gallery floorplan taking into account location of electrical outlets and other special needs
- Ensures that all artwork is exhibition ready (ready to hang)
- Works with SAMC gallery staff to create an install schedule
- Assists with install and take-down of Senior Show
- Ensures all work is removed from gallery at the end of the exhibition and walls are patched and painted.

Assessment:

Teamwork: student works well with others on the team. Shares responsibility equitably.
Communication: clear and timely communication with committee members, other committees and others outside the class.
Professionalism: attention to detail. Work completed to a high standard. Deadlines are met.
Overall contribution to the exhibition

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.