107-210 Art Since 1990

Bachelor of Creative Arts students may credit this subject to a Media Arts and Visual Media major at second or third year.

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

The subject traces the history of international art from 1990 into the 21st century. Through case studies of specific artworks students will be introduced to the theories that informed, shaped or were employed by critics and curators to explain the art of postmodernism, postcoloniality and the new media. Students will explore the transition from 1980s postmodern style; the growing awareness of the art of minority groups; the impact of postcolonial art; the shifting ways in which theories of gender, race and sexuality informed artists' work and ideas; the emergence of new media forms; and the impact of globalisation on networks of exhibitions, artists and curators. On completion of the subject students should be familiar with key issues in material and critical practices in art since 1990.

• 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 intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion;

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

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

Written work totalling 4000 words consisting of two items of assessment: a research essay to be handed in during the semester, shortly after presentation of a class paper; and a short essay to be completed to meet a due date at the end of semester. All written work must be submitted for satisfactory completion of the subject. Students must attend at least 75% of all classes.