Tisch summer 2021 study abroad programs have been canceled. We must remain flexible in our response to changing developments due to COVID-19. The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our primary importance.
Photo by Nora Harless
We travel, initially, to lose ourselves, and we travel, next to find ourselves. - Pico Iyer
For centuries, travelers have been documenting their journeys to parts unknown. The travel narrative is the “oldest in the world” says travel writer, Paul Theroux. This course examines the history of travel literature and photography, while also challenging each student to document his/her first hand experience of travel to Cuba.
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Program Overview
We will reference a wide range of forms: the essay, the report, the journal, the novel, film, the photograph, and photo essay. We will also explore different points of entry: ethnographer, mapmaker, geographical explorer, photographer, adventurer, social activist and tourist. In doing so, we will hone in on principles of travel writing and photography, along with basic guidelines governing the interaction between word and image. Memory and history as essential components will inform our conversation.
The course will include site visits to 2 locations, exposing the student to everyday life in a rich and complex culture, in addition to brief weekly “walkabouts” to nearby neighborhoods. Students will be asked to document their travel experience in word and image into form worthy of a reader.
At the completion of the course, each student will be able to:
1. chart the basic stages/events in the history of travel writing, travel photography and deltiology (history of postcards)
2. recognize the various forms of travel writing, as well as the different points of view or entry.
3. demonstrate a capacity to represent travel experience in work that combines writing with image(s) in a personal approach.
4. articulate the process of deriving a concept and strategy for the final creative project incorporating writing with image.
Equipment Required: Students must bring a point-and-shoot camera of some kind, whether it's an iPhone or more sophisticated DSLR. They must also bring a thumb drive.
Equipment Requirements: Students must bring a point-and-shoot camera of some kind, whether it's an iPhone or more sophisticated DSLR. They must also bring a thumb drive.
Admissions
Please note: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months past the end of the program at the time of your application. There are no exceptions.
You will be housed in the Vedado district of Havana in home-stays (casas particulares). Students are provided with breakfast and dinner at their casas.
Double bedroom
Breakfast and dinner included in program costs
Limited laundry facilities on-site
No internet available in residence, but will be available nearby at additional cost
