KF-406 Concepts of Contemporary Art(s)

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Master's Programme in Fine Arts

Teaching language

English

Course contents

The course will give the students an overview of the theory and history of contemporary art, including knowledge of both arts concepts that characterise contemporary art as well as different understandings of the concept of «contemporary art». With a focus on the interdisciplinary development of art since the start of the 20th century, the students will gain a shared knowledge base of the interdisciplinary perspective. The students will be taught about the intersections of art disciplines and how their interactions have influenced contemporary art, as well as corresponding theoretical perspectives. Discussions will focus on the question of whether demarcation between the different art forms are still relevant. By focussing on readings of «artist writings» knowledge of artistic historical discourse and examples of the way that artists reflect theoretically on their work or apply theory in their artistic development work. Further focus will be on the topic of theoretical texts that are based on artistic examples, so that the relationship between theory and practice is elucidates from both angles.

Learning outcomes

After course completion the student must have:

• extensive knowledge of arts concepts that characterise contemporary art and understanding of the concept «contemporary art», particularly with regards to interdisciplinary openness

• extensive knowledge of interdisciplinary and historical development that form the foundation of this interdisciplinarity

• the ability to analyse exchange and interaction between artistic practices and theorical discourse, particularly in modern art and contemporary art

• the ability to relate contemporary art to social commentary and historical examples of art that comments on social issues

• the ability to place current artistic work in context to art historical traditions and develop and describe contemporary art in relation to relative theoretical arts discourse

Examination requirements

• Approved attendance of compulsory classes

• 1-2 approved compulsory assignments in the form of oral presentations

More detailed information will be available on Canvas at the start of the semester.

Teaching methods

Teaching is organised as shared lectures, seminars and group work. Participation in the discussion, and discourse as well as student presentation will be expected in seminars. These may be related to written assignments.

The course includes compulsory attendance. Details thereof will be available on Canvas at the start of the semester.

Expected workload is 27 hours per credits.

Evaluation

The study programme manager decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Admission for external candidates

No

Assessment methods and criteria

Individual 12 days written home examinations with supervision. Recommended length: approximately 3000 words.

Assessment terminology: Grading by letters.