Cinematic Space

cinematic space cluster

Cinema, as we know it, is based upon lying to the viewer. Perfect example is the construction of cinematic space.       - Lev Manovich

overview

Cinematic Space utilizes multiple dimensions, mediums and practices to expand your creative work. This cluster draws on previous CORE projects: the enclosure of space in the Pocket Shrine, the examination of objects within a context in Object Space Relationships and the creation of narrative in the performance aspect of Garment/Prosthesis.

In the Cinematic Space project, you will develop an encapsulated environment that suggests narrative. Materials and processes are open, but will require and exploration of transitions in materials, dimensions, scale, and context. You will bring together skills from more than one of your Studio X courses to develop the cinematic space.  Combining 2D, 3D, and 4D encouraged. The final sequential outcome may be analog or digital.

components

• Storyboard – sequential sketches with descriptive notes. This is an easy place to edit
• a sketch / a plan / a description
• organize and focus
• develop narrative with sequencing
• a list of contents
• Narrative – you will develop either an implied or active narrative. Whether it takes the form of classical story or not, you will want to ask yourself these questions.
• Does the narrative refer to another work?
• Are there characters? Who are they and what is their impact?
• What is the tone of the narrative: psychological, emotional, physical?
• Chronology? Is this narrative sequential?
• Is there a beginning/middle/end? How is it defined?
• Pacing? Does the rhythm show a forward action? Is it slow? fast? still?
• What keeps our interest?

• Cinematic Space – the space you utilize may be constructed or found. Here are some things to consider:
• framing – what is in the picture?
• space – what are the spatial relationships between objects?
• value – light/shadow/dark
• time – movement/stillness
• sound - volume, layering, quiet

• Culmination - Generally works developed in cinematic space are presented as moving image, a series or sequence of 2D images (including drawing, painting, print, photography, etc) or other convincing media.  You will meet with your instructor to develop your personal goals. How many images you require to convey your narrative (the representation or implication of time) is up to you.

questions to get started

·       What is my space/site? The location of an event, structure, object or other thing whether actual virtual, abandoned (e.g. an archaeological site), extant or planned.

·       What makes my space/site cinematic? The control, or maybe lack of control, and manipulation of time in context? The construction of space that can be edited, acted in, acted upon (cause), or in reaction to (effect)?

·       What do I do first? RESEARCH! Look at the noted artists, read your articles, put thing into context and develop an opinion. Do you homework.

reading TBA

At least one reading will be assigned for this project. Utilize it to shape your thinking about Cinematic Space and your particular project. Keep in mind that readings are full of information and opinion or ways of seeing things. It is your responsibility to read critically and be able to speak to your relationship to the material presented.

vocabulary

• environment: the circumstances or conditions that surround one; surroundings
• diorama: a scene, often in miniature, reproduced in three dimensions by placing objects, figures, etc., seen against a background
• dioramic:  pertaining to or of the nature of a diorama 
• tableau:  (French) a motionless performance in theater
• Mise en scene: (French) in theater - everything that appears before the camera and its arrangement

·       fourth wall: imaginary “wall” at front of stage through which the audience see the action.

• space:  what lies between, around, above, below or within things. It can be actual or illusory. 
• cinematic space: the relationship between time, space and narrative framed by a camera or other devise
• framing:  a technique used to bring focus to the context and subject
• construct: reality as invented by the maker of an image, a narrative, or theory
• context:  physical surroundings, placement in time, cultural, circumstances helping to situate or place a work
• narrative:  construct created to describe a sequence of events; a story
• climax: the turning point in a story in which the underlying conflicts find some resolution
• montage: sequence of images collected & presented in such a way as to create a whole

·       voyerism: the derivation of satisfaction by obsessively  watching or following something from outside, especially secretively

·       sequence: a following of one thing after another: a succession

·       series: a number of related events or things: one following another

proposed calendar

week 1

Introduction: cluster concepts, project overview

Screen: related artists

Discuss: student ideas: site, narrative, materials & processes

HOMEWORK: DUE week 2

• look at/for “cinematic” site in the real world, in film, in art, in writing. POST
• Record 30 Minutes of video, sound, drawing, etc in or about your site
• begin developing cinematic space concept and consider modes of working
• collect materials for a story board

week 2

Round Table: pitch ideas

Studio Work: draft a storyboard

HOMEWORK: DUE week 3

·       complete story board

·       talk with faculty in areas you will be accessing

·       gather materials for working

week 3

Studio Day

HOMEWORK:

Significant progress on cinematic space project

week 4

Studio Day: complete cinematic space project

HOMEWORK: DUE week 5

• document and post

·       prepare presentation

week 5

Group Critique: Cinematic Space Projects