Type of module:

Summary module description:

This is a studio-based module that provides a critical and supportive environment in which students develop practice-based research informed by the current discourses on contemporary art.

Aims:

This module requires students to develop a practice-based project engaging in the theoretical concerns of production, exhibition and reflection of artwork. The module aims to foster an independent approach to practice and research through the acquisition of relevant practical and academic skills. A further aim is for students to inform their individual approach with current developments in the field of contemporary art and make a case for the cultural relevance of critical practice and to collectively stage an exhibition with a leading artist or curator.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module students should demonstrate the ability to:

• critically consider and understand the relationship between material, form and concept


• investigate different methods of presentation and the role that staging art works plays within interpretation


• engage with relevant and current precedents of critical art practice


• convey an individual position through practice within debates and discourses of contemporary art


• assemble and present research and documentation of iterations of practice in appropriate form

Additional outcomes:

The module supports students in the development of a critical and specialised vocabulary and encourages them to refine and deploy this through group discussion and criticism. It also encourages students to extend the presentation of ideas through reflective writing in and through their practice. The module supports students in the development of IT skills suitable for the process of documentation and dissemination of work. The module also promotes understanding of the role of curation in the development of work and allows students to manage their own research, practice and time effectively.

Outline content:

Students are supported in the development of an independent practice-based research through regular meetings and tutorials. The second half of the module is lead by a specialist lead artist or curator, who will develop the theme or focus of the final exhibition and/or publication. At the beginning of the year students are allocated studio space and provided access to workshops. During the year students test their work through tutorials, group criticism, seminars and study visits. Students develop their critical and analytical skills through the taught studio seminar programme which are evidenced in their curated exhibition and related documentation.

Global context:

The global context of contemporary art requires students to reflect and consider their practice within an international perspective that is facilitated through study visits to major international museums, institutions and collections.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Work produced in the studios will be analysed and discussed in one to one tutorials as an ongoing process. Work will be further discussed in studio seminars. Staff will be available to give support and advice as appropriate on modes of production and technical requirements. All staff will be available to teach any student at the request of the postgraduate coordinator who may from time to time invite specialists into the Department. A lead artist or curator is appointed to guide students during the spring and summer terms. Students will attend talks by visiting artists and take part in directed visits to exhibitions. They are also encouraged to reflect upon the role of presentation through the use of department bookable spaces and gallery.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students present work for summative assessment in the summer term as part of the degree exhibition. The form of this presentation is dependent on the nature of the practice. The presentation requires that students make judgements in the selection and staging of work. The summative assessment is supported by documentation of work produced over the year and written reflective evaluation of practice.

Formative assessment methods:

Students receive feedback throughout the year that is intended to enable them to make critical judgements and assess different stages of development in their various projects. Students receive feedback both verbally through tutorials and seminars; and in writing following scheduled presentation points.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% in assessed coursework

Reassessment arrangements:

Individually negotiated coursework to be presented and reassessed within one year

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 10 April 2019