Credit Points: 15
Study Time: 150 Hours

Fundamental elements of visual language are introduced and explored through engagement with materials, processes and the current theoretical context of fine art. Observation or concepts can be recorded through several methods, for example: drawing, photography, video/film, the use of text, casting or painting. These initial studies become the catalyst for further exploration in the studio and eventual transformation of your ideas into outcomes. The Spring Term unit Fine Art: Histories and Contexts (3 January 2012 - 23 March 2012), will provide an historical framework for recognising the signs and meanings implicit in the work of past and contemporary artists and in the appropriate use of materials and ideas.

Outline Syllabus
The emphasis of this unit is placed on thoughtful experimentation and making in the studio and the development of ideas.

Along with an initial introduction to the unit there will be a study visit to expose you to contemporary fine art work and encourage and inspire you to relate your thinking about your own work to that of established contemporary practitioners.

A series of provocative workshops and seminars will expand your approaches to observation and interpreting information.

Practical workshops and demonstrations will be scheduled to cover fundamental processes.

Workshops are intended to facilitate the creation of ideas and the extension and transformation of your responses. You will be required to attend workshops and begin to gather skills in thinking and process lead activities. Critical discussion with tutors will develop understanding.

Individual and group tutorials will be scheduled to support learning and research which will include a small written element.

Aims

A1 The opportunity to engage with the construction and extension of ideas through recording, interpreting and transformation of visual information.
A2 The opportunity to explore ideas, experiment with materials and processes and to confirm individual responses to the brief.
A3 The encouragement for you to begin to understand your position in relation to the contemporary fine art context, and to describe and comment upon it.

Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit you will be able to:

L01 Work with a creative and experimental approach to your interpretation of visual information. 
L02 Use a range of materials, processes and practical skills.
L03 Generate, develop and transform ideas into your own individual response to visual information and reflect upon them.
L04 Select, analyse and use information.

Reference Material

Key
De Oliveira. N. Oxley N. Petry. M. (2003) Installation art in the New Millennium. Thames and Hudson, London
Schwabsky, B. (2004). Vitamin P. London: Phaidon

Recommended
Benjamin, Andrew (1994). Object Painting. London: Academy Editions
Beardsley, John (1998). Earthworks and Beyond – Contemporary Art in the Landscape.
Abbeville Bonami, F. & Nesbitt, J. (1999). Examining Pictures. London: Whitechapel Gallery
Moos, David (ed.). (1996). Painting in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. London: Academy Editions
Neri, Louise; Cooke, Lynne and Duve, Thierry de (2000) Roni Horn Phaidon
Shles, K. & Selz, P. (1996). Theories and Documents of Contemporary Art. A Sourcebook of Artists Writings. University of California

Practical
Mayer, Ralph. (1991) 5th Ed. The Artist‟s Handbook of Materials. London: Faber and Faber.