Lacking the conventions of theatrical cinema, video art entered the scene in the 1960's with artists like Nam June Paik leading the way. Now, more than 50 years later, what is video art all about? This class will explore this question and gain a deeper appreciation of the medium's evolution, variety and psychological impact on viewers. Participants will explore video art on view at the Crocker, including Bill Viola: The Raft, and at the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, where the class will converse with Luke Turner, the Shrem’s exhibit manager and chief preparator.

Instructor Kristi Cortez's passion for all forms of art began as a child when she was a dancer and evolved into a fascination with the social and emotional significance of art movements, techniques and narrative during her graduate studies. She earned her Master of Arts in Film Studies from Chapman University and now bridges her appreciation of art with her
interest in teaching and education. Although her degree is in film, Kristi believes that an understanding of all forms of art allows for greater engagement with any artwork, as all mediums inform one another.