760-121 An Introduction to Visual Culture

Students who have undertaken 760-126 Screen and Photographic Theory 1B are ineligible to undertake this subject.

This subject involves an introduction to critical tools and methods employed in respect of interpreting such image-based cultural practices as photographs, comic-books, television and cinema. Topics covered with include narratology, semiotics, myth criticism, psychoanalytic theory, feminist and Marxist models of interpretation, and broader forms of ideological critique relating to the representation of race and sexuality.

• demonstrate sound and independent critical and ethical thinking in their choice of materials and processes;

• be able to present written and oral communication to a professional standard regarding their treatment and material choices.

Written work totalling 4000 words comprising of a storyboard equivalent to 2000 words 50% (due mid semester), a short visual test (week 9) 400 words 10% and an essay of 1600 words 40% (due end semester).