MATX is an interdisciplinary program, exploring primarily the intersection of Literature/Text, Fine Arts and Mass Media; however, the scope of my project-related research has frequently led me into disciplines as diverse as Biology, Pathology, Ancient History, Philosophy, Nanotechnology, Oral Tradition, Mathematics, Cultural Ritual, Sociology, Music...even Entomology. Indeed, diversity is a hallmark of the program, and in that spirit, I have made every effort to explore subjects decidedly outside my familiar literary realm with a singular intent: to unearth -- or cultivate -- connections among them.
My doctoral coursework reflects an expected bent toward interdisciplinarity and multi-media, but my project work has taken some additional and surprising turns. In concert with solidly acknowledged theories among the program disciplines, I have immersed myself in experimental approaches to analysis and interpretation, comparative media studies, performance, image composition and visual storytelling. This I attribute to the net effect of an innovative and progressive curriculum, and the inspiration that comes of working among a group of talented, creative artists, filmmakers, musicians, poets, actors/directors, designers and photographers.
Of course, not every creative attempt I made was entirely successful; one or two"artistic" projects i started simply did not mature, and a few others are still in development. For the most part, however, my work represents a rewarding process, where vision, concept, research and a certain leap of intuition have resulted in memorable explorations and truly interdisciplinary work.
One last observation worth sharing: in an academic culture largely dominated by medium specificity and division of disciplines, making substantive and valid connections between and among them requires something approaching an academic paradigm shift; however, as I progress in this program -- and in this mindset -- I find this approach increasingly appealing, and even essential to achieving a deep, dimensional understanding of any subject or topic. Frequently I have found that my projects for one course are fundamentally influenced by discussions and readings generated in another, seemingly unrelated course. Threads of connectivity have emerged -- and merged -- to form a fabric of study and experience I couldn't possibly have consciously designed or foreseen. And there seems to be no end to the available material for this interdisciplinary consideration. It practically weaves itself into being for me now.
Work showcased here falls into two categories: Course Presentations and Written Projects. Specific descriptions/abstracts of project work, to include intent and outcome, are provided.