Performing Object Laboratory

Graduate / Open to the Institute
By Permission of Instructor

Students should propose a project before
enrolling. Please contact Janie Geiser at class
sign-up, or email prior to registration at:
geiser@calarts.edu

Performing Object Lab is an interdisciplinary
laboratory for MFA students (Institute-­-wide)
with a focus on creating original work that
incorporates objects and/or puppets. This lab is
a practicum for the ongoing development of each
individual artist's vision, and addresses the
particular challenges of "material performance"
with objects, puppets, and related visual
performance/film/installation forms. Designed as
a process-­-oriented lab, the class is a site for
experimentation and for all aspects of the
development of new work: direction, conception,
design, writing/adaptation, presentation.
Students will be expected to present works in
progress weekly or bi-­-weekly, and to
participate in critiques. Students are also
encouraged to present their work outside of the
classroom, if that makes sense to their process.

Working in a low-tech way, with an emphasis on
exploring the core issues and forms which
motivate each artist's work, and on investigation
and process, artists will define and refine their
aesthetic voices, while developing practical
skills in performance and collaboration.

Weekly assignments are determined for each
student or collaborative team through
consultation with the instructor, in response to
their individual projects and goals. All students
will participate in critiques for several
students' weekly presentations works-in-progress.

Students are expected continue their work outside
of the class, which might involve outside
rehearsals, shoots, etc., as needed.