107-034 The 1980s: Postmodernism in Art

Usually 25 points of first year art history, see Prerequisites.

This subject assumes that the postmodern is a disparate body of strategic responses to shifting cultural and historical circumstances. The subject will focus on a series of case studies intended to review various versions of postmodernism. These case studies will incorporate a wide definition of the visual arts during the 1980s. Students should, on completion of the subject, have an understanding of key issues in art during the 1980s, and be able to locate specific artistic and critical practices within a social, historical and theoretical context.

• be able to research through the competent use of the library and other information sources, and be able to define areas of inquiry and methods of research in the preparation of essays;

• be able to conceptualise theoretical problems, form judgements and arguments and communicate critically, creatively and theoretically through essay writing, tutorial discussion and presentations;

• be able to communicate knowledge in an intelligent and economical way through essay writing and tutorial discussion;

• be able to manage and organise workloads for recommended reading, essays, assignments and examination revision;

• be able to participate in team work through involvement in syndicate groups and group discussions.

Written work totalling 4000 words. All written work must be submitted for satisfactory completion of the subject. Students must attend at least 75% of all classes.

A subject reader will be available.