FYS101-17: Truth and Invention in Photographs
Lecture: Th 4:30 – 7 p.m. | Fine Arts 015
Thomas Beck
In this seminar, the sharpness and accuracy of photographs has tended to convince viewers of the truthfulness of the imagery. In addition, words such as “real” and “factual” frequently have been used to describe photographs even though they may have been totally fabricated. This seminar will explore truthfulness and inventiveness in photographs through topics such as war, landscape, social, art, labor, parapsychological, environmental, and documentary style photography as well as portraiture and photojournalism. Student presentations, class discussions, writing projects, and active learning will be featured. Examination of original prints in the Library Special Collections will be a primary part of the course. The class will meet on selected dates in the Special Collections of the Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery where the nationally significant Photography Collections are held.
*meets Arts and Humanities (AH) requirements
Have you thought of taking a First-Year Seminar?
Each of the courses in the First-Year Seminar (FYS) program is unique in its own way, but what is shared is the:
- small cohort experience. You, along with your faculty member and class participants, study a topic in a dynamic, small-group environment.
- focus on learning by sharing knowledge and experience through writing, discussions, and presentations…key skills your faculty and employers require.
- connection with faculty that can only happen in smaller classroom settings. They will get to know you well and can recommend you for all kinds of opportunities.
