Thematic A Focal Camera (2020-2021)

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, 17 sept: 14:00 - 18:00 - Introduction & First Camera
An introduction to DIY cameras, their importance and the possibilities. If you have any home-built cameras yourself, bring them to class!

Wednesday, 25 sept: 11:00 - 18:00 - Brainstorm & Lenses
The second class will focus on coming up with ideas, building our first camera-part and we start focusing on lenses.
If you have any old junk-lenses around, bring them to class!

Tuesday, 8 oct: 14:00 - 18:00 - Bringing your idea to life
A hand's on class where we try to get as much work done on our camera as possible.

Monday, 15 oct: 11:00 - 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 optical technology. This often goes side by side with the creation of cameras and other optical devices that seek to challenge the history of photography.
More info: focalcamera.com