Studio Art

Photography

Newly renovated in 2006, UMM’s expanded darkroom facility provides students with an efficient work environment that houses ample tools and equipment including four Besseler enlargers and multiple workstations. The facility allows students to do their own black and white film developing and print processing. The space can be accessed daily by enrolled students from 7 am-10 pm.

Photography students are encouraged to combine media, experiment with traditional approaches as well as alternative methods. Many students expand their concentration in black and white photography with interests in digital media, color photography, drawing, painting and book arts. Students develop a sense of the use of the medium as a means to expand their own personal vision, and gain a better understanding of composition. Students learn about presentation styles and techniques, including working sequentially in book form, collage, montage, and traditional matting and framing. Classes are balanced between one-on-one and group critiques of student works with discussion of the work of established artists. The critique process allows students to gain a fuller appreciation for photographic language, and the potential of the medium to express their views and ideas.

Service Learning initiatives allow photography students unique off campus learning opportunities. Since 2003, students have been developing a body of photography and writing related to local foods. Working collaboratively with sociology or writing students, the project connects them with local farmers in order to help students gain a new perspective about the area’s progressive agricultural community, and the impact of our collective choices on both the economy and the environment. Farmers receive copies of summaries of the interviews and photos to utilize as promotional material. The body of work has been exhibited on campus, and through local non-profit venues such as the Prairie Renaissance Cultural Alliance, the Morris Public Library, Pomme de Terre Co-Op, Common Cup Coffeehouse and Java River.