107-068 Art and Film Criticism: History, Theory and Practice

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Subject Description

This subject will examine the history, theory and practice of art and film criticism. The role of the critic in mediating art and film will be explored in an examination of historical practices (art criticism of the 19th century, film criticism of the early 20th century) and theoretical models (hermeneutics, psychoanalysis, intentionality, social history, deconstruction). A variety of reading positions will be considered: genre theory, psychoanalysis, the fan, feminism, queer theory, auteurism, humanism, new-conservatism, newspaper reviews. Seminars and assessment will encourage a practical focus in the subject. Critics and editors will discuss the theory and practice of professional writing; some seminars may take the form of writing workshops. Students will be encouraged to produce film and art reviews and/or criticism as part of their assessment.

Assessment

Written work which may comprise classpapers, essays, exhibition and film reviews or criticism, or take-home examinations totalling 5000 words.

Prescribed Texts

• D Bordwell, Making Meaning, Inference and Rhetoric in the Interpretation of Cinema. Harvard University Press 1989.
• J Hollows & M Jancovich (eds), Approaches to Popular Film. Manchester University Press 1995.
• D Carrier, Artwriting. University of Massachusetts Press 1987.