Module: HAC5110-20 Fine Art Contemporary Issues and Practice

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: James Brown

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.brown5@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module focuses on the role and agency of the visual arts within contemporary visual and material culture. It reflects on how the creative practice of the arts engages with, responds to, and sometimes challenges, the norms, values and expectations at work in our society. The module aims for you to engage with key issues and their significance to both visual arts practices and consumption. You will develop and enhance your critical, analytical, and research skills in the context of the visual arts.

2.Outline syllabus:

This module considers contemporary debates and issues that pertain to visual arts practices and the creative industries more broadly. We will consider the ways in which the contemporary visual arts often engage with social and political concerns ranging from such issues as globalisation and sustainability through to identity and gender. The institutional, economic and ethical frameworks in which contemporary arts practice is situated will also be considered.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

Teaching is by lectures, seminars and workshop sessions. These might take place in a physical teaching space or online. Students are encouraged to develop independent and collaborative learning skills, and the confidence to contribute to debates and discussions through set preparation for seminars and formative tasks, the devising of appropriate essay subjects and the identification of associated research. Summative assessment will consist of an essay and a portfolio of written tasks.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Portfolio of critical writing and weekly tests (equivalent to 1500 words)

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: An essay of 3500 word +10% margin for tolerance on topic as directed.

• % Weighting: 70%