Tempa Cantrell   Lacey Loudermilk

The use of computers is pervasive in our contemporary society from e-mail to DNA modeling. The Department of Art at Otterbein College recognizes the computer as an integral part of our daily lives and has created a well-equipped Macintosh Lab for students to explore this new and emerging form of art. Computer Art is open to all students who have completed 2D Design and Drawing coursework (some photography background is encouraged) and is repeatable three times.

Students receive technical instruction and idea-based assignments that encourage them to explore the use of the computer to examine traditional and nontraditional models of imagery conveyed by art history and popular culture. The student builds on his or her prior art experiences in drawing, painting and photography in developing the form and content of individual work. This course uses computers, scanners and ink jet printers as tools in image making, and encourages students to make critical decisions regarding content.

In a traditional studio art class approach, students use digital drawing and image editing programs individually or in combination to develop a personal aesthetic, culminating in a final portfolio project of printed computer-based images. Formal and informal group and individual critiques take place throughout the term.

Computer Arts Studio
The Reinberger Computer Arts Studio, located on the second floor of the Battelle Fine Arts Center, occupies a secure, spacious room outfitted with bulletin board, chalk board, projection screen, critique area, and drawing tables. Newly constructed countertops running along three walls support the computer equipment in a space efficient manner. The studio is equipped with eighteen networked Apple Macintosh 64 + 65 computers. Each computer is equipped with a large flat panel color monitor and most have a pressure sensitive drawing tablet. The facility is also equipped with a flat bed scanner, Nikon high resolution 35mm slide scanner, and several Epson color printers, capable of full color output ranging from 13-24" wide by 96". BFAC was recently connected to the campus main frame computer; the studio and all faculty offices are equipped with ethernet ports for connecting to the Campus and out to the internet.

Art majors who have successfully completed at least one Vis Com or Computer Art course are entitled access to this facility on an ongoing basis whether enrolled in a related class or not.

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