Course description
Join Critical Theory in Contemporary Art Practice and through lectures, seminars, tutorials and gallery visits, familiarise yourself with key concepts and historical transformations underpinning 20th Century art production and reception.
You will extend and develop your ability to discuss, write about and judge contemporary art. You will look at the impact on contemporary art practice of feminism, post-colonialism, philosophy, psychoanalysis and political theory and examine art practice from different theoretical perspectives and critical debates in the field. You will be supported in identifying thematics and practices that are relevant to your studio practice and assisted in contextualising your work.
Students will be expected to do some reading and research in their own time.
What kind of knowledge and skills do contemporary artists need? What is the relationship between art and entertainment? How do we recognise art? These are just some of the questions we will address as you explore and examine the historical and critical context in which contemporary art is made, circulated, seen and understood.
Course Outcomes
You'll be able to critically discuss and evaluate contemporary art in terms of its production and exhibition. You'll be able to place your studio practice in context.
Who Should Attend
This course is designed to provide creatives with an encompassing introduction to key theoretical discourses that underpin the production and interpretation of art. It provides a platform for students to develop and articulate their own ideas on art production, exhibition and reception. It may suit those wishing to apply for a postgraduate degree in art or to pursue a career in the arts sector
Clear, easy to understand lessons:
- Our tutors will explain things in easy to understand, accessible English. If they need to use any special terminology they will make sure they explain what they mean.
- New methods will be shown to students through live demonstrations, in a way thats crystal clear and easy to understand.
- Experience life on campus
- Network and share ideas with students from across the globe
- Access the technology and materials relevant to your discipline
- Shop in our college shops for any materials you might need
- Ask questions of your tutor in real time
- Receive feedback and critique on your assignments
- Experience the many sights of London on your down time
A certificate of completion:
- You've put the work in so we want to make sure you have something to show for it!
- As long as you attend a minimum of 80% of your classes, we will provide you with a certificate of attendance.
- We always recommend you attend all of the classes so that you get the most out of the experience!
- Certificates are great to compliment your cv.
Details
Topics covered:
- What is the critical role of art?
- The Critical Function of Art
- Politics and the Institution of Art
- Gallery Visit
- Spectacle and the Everyday
- Writing Workshop
- The Abject, Identity and Process
- Participation, Dialogue and the Gift Economy
Materials
Please bring the following materials with you on the first day:
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Notebook and Pen
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Money for travel and exhibition entry
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Computer, laptop or ipad and internet access for homework activities
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Examples of your work in portable or digital form
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A USB stick
Please note that most materials needed for the short courses are available at the Chelsea College of Arts' Art Shop. Please contact the Art Shop directly for opening hours and availability.