ARTS 251
The Personal Documentary Spring 2025
Division I D Difference, Power, and Equity
This is not the current course catalog

Class Details

In this course, we will survey the terrain of personal documentary in all its complexity–its marginal roots, and its current mainstream appeal. Examining a wide array of formal approaches from diary films, to archival excavations, to first-person odysseys, we will ask: what does it mean to tell a story that is personal, vulnerable, ethical? How to avoid predictability and narcissism, and instead use self-reflection productively? How do race, sexuality, class and gender inflect personal filmmaking? Major assignments will include 3-4 short videos; supplementary assignments include a daily diary, weekly film screenings, and 1-2 readings per week.
The Class: Format: studio
Limit: 12
Expected: 12
Class#: 3943
Grading: yes pass/fail option, no fifth course option
Requirements/Evaluation: preparation and participation; 3-4 short videos; daily diary; weekly film screenings, 1-2 readings per week
Prerequisites: 100 level video course or permission of instructor
Enrollment Preferences: sophomores, juniors, majors
Materials/Lab Fee: $250-$350 Lab and materials fees for all studio art classes are covered by the Book Grant for all Williams financial aid recipients.
Distributions: Division I Difference, Power, and Equity
DPE Notes: This course will consider the role of race, gender and sexuality in representing personal experience onscreen.

Class Grid

Course Catalog Archive Search

TERM/YEAR
TEACHING MODE
SUBJECT
DIVISION



DISTRIBUTION



ENROLLMENT LIMIT
COURSE TYPE
Start Time
End Time
Day(s)