107-471 Histories and Theories of Conservation

Formerly available as 107-040. Students who have completed 107-040 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 37.5 points of art history at second/third-year, see Prerequisites or admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours in art history.

This subject will include an analysis of the conservation issues in the preservation of ancient archaeological sites; the emergence of the professional painter restorers such as Bellini and Titian in Renaissance Italy; restoration controversies such as the Sistine Ceiling; 19th century criticism by John Ruskin and Viollet-Le-Duc on how Gothic architecture should be restored; ecotourism and the art of indigenous Australian peoples; changes in conservation as a result of new technology; and the conservation of films on celluloid and video. Students should become conversant with the major debates concerning conservation and contemporary museology.

• 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 for 3rd year, 5000 words for 4th year and Master of Art Curatorship.