Thematic A Focal Camera

Thematic Project Seminar 1: ‘ A Focal Camera Workshop‘ by Mathijs van Oosterhoudt

While cameras and lenses influence the way we take pictures, we're not always in control over how they function. Why are they made the way they are, and what are the alternatives? From the 18th of September to the 30th of October we explore such topics. Furthermore, we go hands-on with DIY camera making: From a pinhole camera to stereo SLR or slit scan, all is possible.

Through making our own cameras we explore the possibilities of niche functions & alternative aesthetics. Learning to create simple versions of something difficult to understand mechanisms in modern cameras, we are also able to look at how an originally simple device has become so overtly complex. Meanwhile, choosing what you create and what you want to achieve opens up a gateway to a ton of odd functions, alternative aesthetics & duct tape.

Monday, 18 sept: 14:00 - 18:00 - Introduction & First Camera

An introduction to DIY cameras, their importance and the possibilities. At the end of this day you'll have your first homemade camera. If you have any home-built cameras yourself, bring them to class!

Monday, 02 oct: 11:00 - 18:00 - Brainstorm & Lenses

The second class will focus on coming up with ideas, understanding lenses and all manner of odd creations of the past. By the end of this day, you'll have built a lens. If you have any old junk-lenses around, bring them to class!

Tuesday, 10 oct: 14:00 - 18:00 - Bringing your idea to life

We meet up to discuss progress, ideas and how to realize them.

Monday, 23 oct: 14:00 - 18:00 - Finishing touches

We will be aiming to have all our cameras finished by the end of the day, ready for testing.

Mathijs van Oosterhoudt [NL] is an artist that engages critically with the political landscape of media, exploring the direct and indirect social and cultural influences of invisible technology. His works present such explorations through various ways of participation and interaction.