The University’s Laboratory for Creative Arts and Technologies is discovering new ways to enhance arts and communication.
Lab researchers are focusing their efforts on a variety of areas, including three-dimension, surround sound, high-definition imaging and digital animations.
The program is funded by the University’s Center for Applied Information Technology and Learning, or LSU CAPITAL, which is designed to use information technology to achieve Gov. Mike Foster’s “Vision 20/20” plan for the state and help the University move toward flagship status.
LCAT director Stephen David Beck said while the lab is not yet a physical establishment, it is a strong idea, and it will benefit from a group of people committed to digital art and digital media.
“Right now we’re in the midst of a faculty development program,” Beck said.
Beck said faculty members should soon be receiving grants to continue their research.
Susan Ryan, a member of the LCAT’s faculty steering committee, said the program officially came into being in July, but faculty members spent several months before that looking at different centers, ideas and other initiatives to bring creative activity and technology together.
In addition, Beck said he thinks students in curriculums as varied as the arts, writing, music, engineering, computer science and mass communication will be able to have a higher profile with the use of the new technology.
Beck said the program is one of the few of its kind in the nation.
“Very few places in the world have a lab dedicated to the creative use of technology,” Beck said.
Beck said a student-based research project is in the works to research such initiatives as video game development and interactive Web sites.
“We’re trying to support digital technology in creative activities,” Beck said.
John Lynn, a biological sciences professor and member of the LCAT faculty steering committee, said the committee serves to suggest policies, look at hiring decisions, evaluate proposals and create new projects.
Lynn said although the project is in its beginning stages, he thinks it could have substantial benefits for students.
“I think the benefit is going to be huge,” Lynn said. “We’re trying to create new ways of looking at computer technology, as well as the arts and creative endeavors.”