Theories of Art and Culture IIB

This subject is not offered in 2014.

2 hours contact and 4 hours non-contact per week

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Objectives, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

A series of weekly seminars dealing with the interdisciplinary study of significant issues in contemporary cultural theory. The course is run as a reading group and critical workshop. Discussion is focussed on consideration of, and speculation on, contemporary cultural theory demonstrated in reading material and, according to opportunity, in current exhibitions or art events.

• To develop an understanding of the professional and institutional practices that comprise the contemporary art profession
• To demonstrate through critical writing and discussion the capacity to articulate judgements and opinions that reflect an understanding of the field
• To engage professionally within the institutional context of contemporary art

One written paper of 4,000 words, or equivalent (100%)

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

• exercise an open and independent attitude to learning about contemporary cultural developments, both theoretical and practical;
• respond confidently and intelligently to innovative or unfamiliar cultural concepts and practices;
• critically and creatively engage with topics of cultural significance and effectively participate in or contribute to contemporary cultural debate;
• direct and organize their own research and investigation into topics of relevance to the development of their artistic work, and test the outcomes of this research and investigation.