Description

Electronics can be a kind of language that, when an artist becomes fluent in it, opens doors to numerous aesthetic possibilities. Students will learn the basic principles of electronics along with hands-on techniques for putting the power of electrons into their work. They will be introduced to electronic components and circuits for switching, sensing, making decisions, and, to a limited degree, linking to computers. Students will encounter digital and analog answers to some of the most common art-making needs, gaining a foundation which will enable them to continue to expand their repertoire of aesthetic technological skills.

This course explores electronics as a creative medium, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to integrate electronic components into their artistic practices. Electronics, viewed as a language, opens new aesthetic possibilities. Students will learn basic principles of electronics, including switching, sensing, decision-making circuits, and programming, and will engage with both digital and analog technologies. The course focuses on creating tools and artworks that incorporate electronic elements, providing a foundational understanding to expand technical and aesthetic repertoires.

Course Learning Goals 

- Understand basic electronic principles and hands-on circuit-building techniques.  

- Design, troubleshoot, and assemble electronic circuits for artistic purposes.  

- Utilize electronic components such as sensors, transistors, diodes, and microcontrollers like Arduino.  

- Solve common art-making needs through electronic systems.  

- Develop skills to continue integrating technology into art-making independently.

Requirements

- Technology: Access to a computer for programming Arduino.  

- Materials (to be purchased):  

- Required:  

- Arduino and Components Kit ($34.99)  

- Soldering Kit ($11.97)  

 - Recommended:  

- Clipleads ($5.39)  

- Multimeter ($12.99)  

AT/SP Community 

Students are encouraged to join the departmental forum at [ats.community](https://ats.community) for updates on artist talks, DEI reading groups, town halls, and discussions.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

Students requiring accommodations should contact the Disability and Learning Resource Center (DLRC) for support.

Course Outline

1. August 30: Course Introduction; Breadboarding Basics  

2. September 6: Electronic Circuit Concepts  

3. September 13: Designing Circuits with Passive Components  

4. September 20: Light and Semiconductor Devices  

5. September 27: Sound and Signal Concepts  

6. October 4: Motion and Arduino Basics  

7. October 11: Sensors and Advanced Arduino  

8. October 18: Project Studio Work  

9. October 25: Continued Project Studio Work  

10. November 1: Midterm Project Critiques  

11. November 8: Reflection and Adjustment  

12. November 15: Final Project Planning and Studio Work  

13. November 22: Studio Work and Project Documentation  

14. November 29: Thanksgiving (No Class)  

15. December 6: Critique Week (No Class)  

16. December 13: Final Project Critiques  

Suggested Readings

- "Getting Started in Electronics" by Forrest M. Mims III  

- "Make: Electronics" by Charles Platt  

- "Art and Electronic Media" by Edward Shanken  

- "How to Diagnose and Fix Everything Electronic" by Michael Jay Geier  

This course blends technical knowledge with artistic creativity, providing a dynamic and experimental environment to explore the potential of electronics in art-making.

Student's projects overview