Intermedia

INTERMEDIA

Modes of study:

• full-time first-cycle studies (BA 3 years)
• full-time second-cycle studies (MA 2 years)

Description of the Field of Study:

By definition, the degree programme in Intermedia is situated between disciplines. The term in -between is especially important, as it points to the direction towards broadening one’s horizons. Inter-medium by its very definition denies  the use of one single medium. Intermedia should be understood as a combination of at least few means of artistic expression. Such diversity helps to refute conventions and makes students aware of how important it is to expand one’s individual reflection and possibilities. This is where the natural stimulation of creative energy and genuine emotions begin. These emotions are channeled on the very act of the artistic process. Activities and experiments often take place in unconventional spaces, also outside the university. The idea of Intermedia is teaching  each other the art of asking questions and looking for the answer to the most important of them – what and how exactly exists? Together, we also learn to experiment – not only with dynamically changing new media and technologies, but also with traditional means of expression.  We create an opportunity to reflect on new phenomena that emerge. Teachers involved in Intermedia are authors of original curricula that are free from academic stereotypes. Intermedia can be compared to a cultural melting pot – there is space for ephemerical activities and, at the same time, through workshops and experiments with modern technologies, students are given tools of creation.

The degree programme in Intermedia enables to acquire a set of unique skills that allow to create and carry out complex visual and audiovisual artistic expressions with the use of modern techniques and technologies.

Experimental Film (an alternative specialization path within the degree programme in Intermedia)

Although the term experimental film has been known almost since the beginning of cinema (owing to the development and popularisation of digital imaging), it has become an important field in visual arts. We aim at educating creators to use modern technologies and the specific language of film ina conscious and professional way.  The curriculum of students who decide to select this path is complemented by courses related to the theory and practice of experimental film. It provides an opportunity to obtain practical skills necessary in this dynamically developing artistic discipline. Throughout the course of studies, students have the opportunity to experience different film-related professions in order to determine their own predispositions in a conscious creative process. Students learn how to use specialist filmmaking equipment in a well-equipped  film studio and while shooting exteriors. They also learn digital film post-production. Many workshops take place in block mode synchronized with the process of film production.

The curriculum of the path offered by the University of the Arts Poznan emphasizes the difference from traditional forms of education at film faculties of other universities. Students of UAP are artists that in a critical and creative way cross the boundries of film imaging.   Apart from knowledge, skills and competences related to broadly understood creative activities, the graduates of Intermedia will be familiar with the essential techniques related to moving image, object and other activities in the of audiovisual art.  This will allow them to consciously build creative contexts in the social and media space. Graduates will be prepared to take up jobs in a profession related to the profile and the field of their studies.  Intermedia also gives the opportunity to open one’s path as a free artist.

Types of courses:

Intermedia is a fairly new degree programme that offers training in two main directions: in intermedia (art, media and society) and film (experimental film). The study programme for both directions includes similar courses. Students of Intermedia and students of the specialization path in Experimental Film acquire knowledge about contemporary art in its various aspects embedded in a broad spectrum of the art world – in an institutional and market context, as well as in the area of new practices at the junction of education and socially conditioned artistic activities. Students learn about the history and theory of media arts.

They learn the practices of various forms of artistic expression, including photography, film, audiosphere and performance. In their own practice, they learn and experience a wide range of other, non-obvious tools of the contemporary artist. They learn how to create exhibitions and events. By actively participating in cultural life, they take part in various public discussions and artistic undertakings. During their studies they work both individually and test their skills and predispositions for teamwork. Students  also take part in study and creative trips, open-air workshops and study visits, that allow them to observe works of other’s and to establish contacts with distinguished cultural creators.

In the process of education they learn from teachers and from each other. They use their experiences to talk about things important for the society  and those that are important only to them. They prepare and present their portfolios, learning to talk about what they do and for why they do it.