Critical Theory in Contemporary Art Practice Short Course
Course description
Course overview
Join Critical Theory in Contemporary Art Practice and through lectures, seminars, tutorials and gallery visits, familiarise yourself with key concepts and historical transformations underpinning 20th Century art production and reception.
You will extend and develop your ability to discuss, write about and judge contemporary art. You will look at the impact on contemporary art practice of feminism, post-colonialism, philosophy, psychoanalysis and political theory and examine art practice from different theoretical perspectives and critical debates in the field. You will be supported in identifying thematises and practices that are relevant to your studio practice and assisted in contextualising your work. You will also be expected to do some reading and research in their own time.
What kind of knowledge and skills do contemporary artists need? What is the relationship between art and entertainment? How do we recognise art? These are just some of the questions we will address as you explore and examine the historical and critical context in which contemporary art is made, circulated, seen and understood.
Who this course is for
This course is designed to provide creatives with an encompassing introduction to key theoretical discourses that underpin the production and interpretation of art. It provides a platform for students to develop and articulate their own ideas on art production, exhibition and reception. It may suit those wishing to apply for a postgraduate degree in art or to pursue a career in the arts sector.
Key information
Topics covered
- Critical function of art
- Politics and the Institution of Art
- Gallery visits
- Writing workshop
- Participation and dialogue
Learning outcomes
- Able to critically discuss and evaluate contemporary art in terms of its production and exhibition
- Able to place your studio practice in context
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance.
Materials
- Notebook and pen
- Money for travel and exhibition entry
- Computer, laptop or iPad with internet access for homework activities
- Examples of your work in portable or digital form
- USB stick
Please note that most materials needed for the short courses are available at the Chelsea College of Arts' Art Shop. Please contact the Art Shop directly for opening hours and availability.
Tutor
Sophia Kosmaoglou
Sophia Kosmaoglou is an artist, tutor, curator and founder of [ART&CRITIQUE], an alternative art education network based in London. Her work employs a broad range of practices including sculpture, installation, video, painting, performance, sound, site-specificity, collaboration and participation to address identity, convention, authority and rationalism. Her current practice blurs the boundaries between art, activism and education to question the ontology of art and its social and institutional functions. She has a practice-based PhD in Fine Art from Goldsmiths and her research interests include institutional critique and the relationship between art and politics, institutions and independent organisations and collective practices. Her PhD thesis is a critical reassessment of institutional critique and of the value of autonomy in art practice. She has previously taught Critical Studies and Studio Practice on BA Fine Art Practice and Joint Honours courses at Goldsmiths. She is a member of Exploding Cinema, Deptford Cinema and The Field New Cross.
View Sophia's website
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