705-415 Contemp'ry Theory & Australian Landscape

Completion of a level-3 design or design theory subject.

This subject is based on a review of recent theoretical developments in the areas of landscape architecture, landscape perceptions and landscape theory, and their application to the Australian landscape and contemporary landscape architectural practice. The latter is introduced by lectures, critiques and case analyses linking theory to execute works. Guest lecturers include practitioners and theorists in the areas covered, including cultural landscape, iconography of landscape, artistic interpretations and the history of various arts and their approaches to landscape.

On completion of the subject students should be able to:

• Understand the way that the Australian landscape has been perceived by its inhabitants and how those perceptions have changed with time.

• Have a developing knowledge of landscape theory.

• Trace the way practitioners of landscape planning and design have responded in their practice.

• Appreciate what changing perceptions suggest to us about landscape planning and design today.

• Outline the way that the Australian landscape has been perceived and experienced at different times in history.

• Describe ways that landscape planning and design might better respond to the cultural and natural landscape on the basis of case studies and critical analysis.

On completion of the subject students should have developed the following skills and capabilities:

• Critical thinking skills and analysis.

• Skills in seeking, evaluating and retrieving information.

• Comprehension of complex concepts and the ability to express them lucidly in writing.

• The ability to work individually and in groups.

Two written assignments of 1500 and 3500 words each.