Contemporary Art Practices Art History 1

AH1 aims to provide a foundation for learners in methods of analysis and investigation to empower further study in the discipline. The module begins with lectures on broad topics including specialist language and vocabulary, symbolism, techniques, power and patronage. It also draws the students’ attention to the meta-cognitive aspects of the discipline by considering how art historiography has been written and presented. The module continues with a chronological introduction to Western European art history with an emphasis on the cultural contexts of art production. This focus on the traditional canon will be challenged through the use of an intersectional approach to explore the key themes of decolonization, decisnormatization, and sustainability. The teaching strategy is based on the UDL principles, and the teaching and learning methods will involve a combination of lectures, readings, class discussion and case-study analysis. Field trips to galleries and museums are encouraged and organised for participants. A range of audiovisual materials will be presented in the lectures, with adjacent textual resources, links and activities posted on Moodle. The module aims to deepen the students’ understanding of art and their own development as artists. 

1. Develop their visual memory and build a framework of reference to art works from a range of art forms, including painting, sculpture and print..

2. Appreciate the works of art in the context of the prevalent ideas and historic events in which they were produced, and understand how and why the traditional Western canon is changing.

3. Understand and be able to use the language and methods of Art History.

4. Become familiar with important literature and learning resources of the discipline.

5. Write and present written critical reflections employing academic methods of research and citation.