The Photography Department at the Muthesius Kunsthochschule deals with the diverse forms of photographic expression. These range from the documentary description of reality to the (digital) construction or simulation of reality.
A field of tension arises between the autonomous image, the reference to perceptible reality and the question of the authenticity of photographic images.
Students realize their artistic/design intention with the help of the photographic medium. Through this practical application, which is accompanied by critical reflection on the medium, an awareness and sensitivity for the specific modes of action of photographic images emerge.
Artistic production needs freedom in the choice of its means, its tools and materials. Students working with a focus on photography have a set of tools at their disposal due to the variety of technical possibilities, which opens up to far-reaching ideas regarding content and design.
The technical options are given expression in the design process.
The teaching of photography spans the arc from practical productive making to reflection on art, photography and its history, media and social contexts. One’s own artistic activity is thus placed in a larger context, and this indirect view of one’s own work is intended to lead directly back to productivity. The individual artistic and socio-political basic interest of the students is addressed and, based on this, their own visual language and attitude is developed.
When deciding to work with a particular medium, it is important to understand the expressive possibilities and conventions associated with it. An awareness of the medium’s modes of action and the conventions of its use develops through a basic understanding of craft and technique. On this basis, an independent artistic expression can be established.
Students learn about analog and digital cameras, photo lab work, and digital printing techniques. In addition, students are given the opportunity to explore image editing programs, 3-D techniques, and computer-generated image creations. The spectrum ranges from purely analog photography to crossover processes, camera-less photography, the combination of image/text and book, space-based installations, and AI-generated images.
Questions?
PROF.IN CHRISTINE ERHARD
E erhard@muthesius.de
T 0431 / 5198 – 435
