Contemporary Art Theory 1

This module aims to provide a foundation for learners in analysing the texts of contemporary art. Through lectures exploring key theorists in the shift from modernism to postmodernism and the contemporary, the learners will understand the logic behind the moves from formalist approaches to the more recent emphases on relationships, dialogue and the social in contemporary aesthetics. The current challenges to the traditional hegemonic Western discourse on art will be explored through an intersectional approach focusing on 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. These theoretical ideas will be augmented by examples of contemporary art through the presentation of a range of audiovisual materials, with adjacent textual resources, links and activities posted on Moodle. The module aims to deepen the students’ understanding of contemporary art and their own development as artists.

1. Be cognizant of how and why the very concept of art and its relationship with society is changing.

2. Understand and be aware of developments in aesthetic theory from the late 1960s to the present, demonstrating an ability to analyse key works of art in their theoretical contexts.

3. Be cognizant of the relationship of new technologies and materials to contemporary art production and practice.

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

5. Write critical reflections on these themes, employing academic methods of research and citation.