DIVST300 Multiculturalism & Identity
FALL 2012

Diversity Studies Studios introduce students to the interrelations between race/ethnicity, art making and design practices. These courses complement the Diversity Studies Seminars with their hands-on approach in which themes of ethnic identity are incorporated into studio and community practices.

Focus on Photography /Video / Graphic Design / Critical Studies - Cross-Culture: California College of the Arts and Istanbul Bilgi University, Turkey. This interdisciplinary course will explore current and historical perceptions concerning Culture and Identity in every day life and their complex relationship with regard to artistic and cultural production. Areas and issues such as the representation of space both physical and psychological, public place (urban fabric) or private will help frame discussions as they relates to personal or cultural identities (gender roles, race). To further expand an understanding of multiculturalism and identity in everyday life, a cross-cultural exchange will be established (online) with students from Istanbul Bilgi University (Turkey). Cross-disciplinary exchange/collaboration and experimentation will be encouraged between the students within the two groups. Throughout the semester each student will work on a self-designed project. Although, work will be generated individually, the class will design and exhibit their ideas collectively. A selection of work produced from each group will form an exhibition with a catalog.