Course Objectives

The students will learn how / about:

• To make forms using natural materials such as branches, straw, fruits, leather, bone, stone and earth
• Topics concerning aesthetic forms
• Photoshop and photography
• To discuss didactic and pedagogical issues
• Nature philosophy

Course Description

This course focuses on “art in nature”. The student will create forms in an outdoor area (“wilderness”). The process will range from minimalism to site-specific performances or installations documented with photographs. It will involve a cultural dimension and rich symbolism. A wide range of natural materials will be available with a view to creating an intimate and eco-friendly effect.

Learning Methods

Telemark University College is situated in the eastern part of Norway. During the study programme students will mainly work outdoors with installations, buildings, objects and sculptures. They will use areas in the mountains and a nearby lake not far from the university college campus. The study programme will examine terms such as “green art”, “sustainable formgiving” and “post carbon arts and crafts”. One of the aims of the study programme is to reuse, reduce and recycle in the making process; and students will also be encouraged to develop a sense of place and context during their practical work with each project.

Students will participate in collaborative projects on a large scale. The intervention context will often concern learning about a place, a craft or an issue and finding a creative opportunity through the making process to do something about it. Practice and nature are the starting points for the learning process.

Assessment Methods

The grade for the course will be based on portfolio assessment. The final assessment will be made after all obligatory requirements have been satisfactorily completed.

A final single grade is recorded on the diploma, graded from A to F, where A is the highest grade, and E is the lowest passing grade. Students must receive a passing mark in each course in order to receive a passing grade for the study programme.

Please refer to the examination regulations of Telemark University College for additional information.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean