Yoonshin Park

In this interdisciplinary research course, the class will focus on the exploration of interwoven relationships among randomness, chance, and creativity. We will delve into experimentation that involves planned and intuitive decision-making processes and question the hidden forces that often come out as motivation and inspiration that shape artists' work. What factors make some accidental decisions successful, and what information can be drawn from intended plans? With collected qualitative data, we will uncover the concerns that drive artistic practices and how serendipity can play a pivotal role in shaping one's creative path. Artists/Works/Screening/Reading/Content Area Examples: ''An Anecdoted Topography of Chance,'' a book by Daniel Spoerri that intersects storytelling and visual art, will serve as a starting point to explore the concept of randomness in art and life. We'll explore the writings of John Cage, whose compositions often incorporate elements of randomness, as well as the works of visual artists like Jean Arp and Max Ernst. Our readings will encompass not only ''An Anecdoted Topography of Chance'' but also foundational texts on Dadaism and Surrealism. Through screenings and discussions, we will use films such as ''The Artist is Present'' and collections of sounds and movements as supplemental research materials. Assignments/Projects: Assignments in this course will include weekly reflections on chance encounters and decision-making, two bodies of work for mid-term and final, and a group project.