Module: CST4003-20 How Did We Get Here?: Contexts of Art 

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Ewa-Monica Fabian

Module Tutor Contact Details: e.fabian@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces you to the study of the history and theory of visual and material culture as it informs visual arts practice. Concepts such as creativity, presentation, and mediation will be considered along with an investigation of research in visual and material culture, critical writing, and visual critique. The historical and aesthetic characteristics of works of art produced during selected historical periods will be utilised to demonstrate how and why we create, value, and engage with our visual and material culture. You will develop a range of critical, analytical, and research skills.

2.Outline syllabus

The main themes and issues considered are:

• Critical, theoretical and contextual approaches to studying the production and consumption of the visual arts,

• Key texts and current debates in the visual arts,

• Key historical developments in the practice of the creative arts and their social and cultural contexts.

These issues are addressed through a variety of examples drawn from global origins.

3.Teaching and learning activities

Teaching is by presentations, critical conversations, workshops, and online forums (any of these might take place in a physical teaching space or online). Students are encouraged to develop independent and collaborative learning skills through set preparation, contributing to online forums, the devising of appropriate assessment subjects, the identification of associated research, formative tasks and summative assessments.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Portfolio (4000 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 100%