FA1RW-Reading Objects, Writing Images

Module Provider: Art
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: FA1ART Art Studio
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Module Convenor: Miss Wendy McLean

Email: w.a.mclean@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This studio-based module introduces approaches to image, object and text through exploring drawing, exhibition and reflective writing. An understanding of drawing in its many guises as foundation for creative enquiry, as a way of thinking and articulating ideas, is fostered through research and experimentation with a diverse range of media and form.

Aims:

This module aims to give students experience of developing and devising art practice introducing processes of group work and production. It will explore through experimentation some of the conventions that underpin independent art practice. The module aims to provide a common vocabulary for the discussion of practical work and develop reflective skills through writing and group critique. It promotes the exploration and articulation of material forms, through consideration and use of appropriate media. The module will introduce current and historical modes of practice, orient students in research methods and, through study visits to museums and galleries, familiarise students with the cultural context of contemporary art.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to:

• experiment with a range of methods and media, applying these with creative consideration in the development of the work;


• develop a self-directed and coherent enquiry in response to project-based and independent practice


• reflect upon independent studio practice in writing to articulate thinking and engagement with making


• work collaboratively to develop experimental and critically aware group work

Additional outcomes:

The module plays a significant role in the development of other skills and competencies which are central to the programme: oral communication, argument and collaboration required for effective individual and group work; management and communication skills required to satisfactorily carry out studio practice; practice-based research skills using printed and electronic resources; critical analysis and coherent argument, both individually and collectively; identifying and addressing problems in the analysis, evaluation and development of art practice.

Outline content:

The module will consist of practice-based projects that cover a range of approaches, media and methods. These will provide the means to explore aspects of drawing as a form of visual research, extending to image production; the development of visual forms, space and documentation.  It will introduce the use of text within artworks; writing as both material and reflection on process and the book as both form and document. The module will integrate methods of making associated with art practice, including the use of appropriate tools, materials and techniques for research and presentation.

Global context:
This module draws on artists, exhibitions and events within the global context and network of international contemporary art.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Practical studio projects typically consist of a briefing session, where each project is described and working methods discussed; and contextual lectures that frame the theoretical and historical references. At each stage practical work is followed by critical analysis (oral and written) requiring students to reflect on the effects of their decision-making and to relate their own work to wider practices and critical concepts. Throughout the module students will have the opportunity to discuss their progress with tutors; workshop sessions focusing on aspects of making; a closing session involving a review of work done and an opportunity to reflect on developments and to establish a common vocabulary for the discussion of practical work. A body of informed, independent work is developed incrementally over the course of the module through guided research, engagement with technical demonstrations, and independent experimentation.



The department provides core materials for each of the projects undertaken as part of this module. There may be additional material costs to students in developing their work, subject to individual practices; however, the department further subsidises expenses for studio materials through the Art Shop. Museum and gallery learning is an important learning activity as part of this module. There is one scheduled study visit per term and students will need to cover their own travel expenses.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	2	2
Seminars	2	2
Tutorials	2	2
Project Supervision	3	3
Demonstration	1	1
Practicals classes and workshops	4	4
Supervised time in studio/workshop	4	4
External visits	2	2
Guided independent study:	80	80
Total hours by term	100	100
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Project output other than dissertation	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:
N/A

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Summative assessment will take place at the end of the module. Studio work that represents sustained participation in the course will be assessed by:

• An exhibition of independent and collaborative work and an accompanying written reflective account (end of Spring term)

Formative assessment methods:

The module is punctuated with a number of presentation points that allow for both oral and written feedback. The seminars and group tutorials provide an important channel for feedback on the development and progress of practice. Formative assessment also takes place through a presentation of work and an accompanying written reflective account at the end of the Autumn term.

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;

where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% must be achieved in the assessed coursework

Reassessment arrangements:

Students will submit an additional practical project by a specified date during the August re-examination period.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 8 April 2019