FAMAP-Art, Power, Politics

Module Provider: Art
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: p.kollectiv@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module examines the relationship between critical ideas and influential artworks in contemporary art.

Aims:
This module examines the relationship between critical ideas and influential artworks in contemporary practice. It builds concepts and critical terminology providing students with an in-depth analysis of the dependence of specific artworks on particular theories. The module encourages students to critically reflect upon the theoretical and political contexts in which contemporary art is produced and the diverse strategies and forms developed by artists in response.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
- demonstrate awareness and understanding of the diverse range of practices that constitute the field of contemporary art
- display the ability to work with theoretical ideas and apply them in an analysis of contemporary artworks
- demonstrate an awareness of current debates informing contemporary art practice
- structure an essay and develop a focused analysis that reflects an understanding of the ways in which a theory relates to an artwork or is used by an artist
- examine and appraise a broad range of research material including primary text, exhibitions, art journals, periodicals and web based sources
- organize and present a coherent written argument which understands the conventions of referencing and bibliography.

Additional outcomes:
The module enables students to develop a more in-depth awareness of art, which should be of use in other areas of the course. The module also encourages students to develop independent research skills including the use of IT.

Outline content:
The module is delivered through a series of seminars and visiting lectures examining the diverse practices of contemporary art including relevant historical precedents. The lectures will use a number of key texts and examine their use in relation to art practice. The module examines particular theoretical methodologies and considers the distinct ways in which these overlap with the production of art. The module tests these ideas through critical examination of contemporary art and in this respect the module prioritises study visits to museums and galleries.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module will be delivered through a programme of seminars and visiting lectures. the module will cover a number of key text in detail and will examine the ways in which they inform the production and interpretation of contemporary art. The seminar allows students to raise questions and discuss particular issues from their reading and research in greater depth. Students are required to do preparatory reading and may be required to visit exhibitions.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
3000 word essay. Students identify and develop their own research question with advise from the module convenor.

Formative assessment methods:
Students are requested to meet with the Module Convenor to discuss the content and scope of their coursework and test their understanding through contribution to the seminars.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

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: 10 April 2019