Art, Philosophy, Contemporary Practices - Course Outline

Level 1

• Studio Projects 1/1
• Studio Projects 1/2
• Introduction to Visual Culture 1
• Introduction to Visual Culture 2
• Introduction to Aesthetics
• Introduction to the Philosophy of Art

In Level 1 we will introduce you to the basics of visual language. You will discover the principal arguments of aesthetics and the philosophy of art as well as contemporary visual culture, history and theory. We will focus on the connection between art practice and theory from different perspectives. You will acquire a range of skills that lay the foundations for the development of your creative, imaginative and critical potential.

Level 2

• Studio Projects 2/1
• Studio Projects 2/2
• Interdisciplinary Studies 2/1: Concepts, Methods, Perspectives
• Interdisciplinary Studies 2/2: Concepts, Seeing Difference
• Analytic Aesthetics
• Aesthetics in Transition, Schopenhauer, Nietzsche and Heidegger

Level 2 extends the aims and purposes of Level 1. You will continue to take 2 modules each in the areas of studio projects, philosophy and interdisciplinary studies. We will prepare you to express your thoughts through images and texts.

Level 3

• Studio Practice 3
• Questions of Vision in Art
or
• The Aesthetics of the Sublime
or
• Film and Art
or your choice from:
• Vision, Literature and Art
• Spinoza
• Foucault
• Digital Poetry
• Antigone and Philosophy
• Optional exchange trip

Level 3 consists of a year-long module in studio practice and one semester-long module each in philosophy and another Level 3 module, usually film studies. We will place a great emphasis on the development of your identity as an artist through explorative and experimental work. In philosophy you can choose from two one-semester module option. The additional module expands your exploration of contemporary visual culture and/or theory through a focus on film or literature. An exchange with a foreign university is an option many students enjoy in this year.

Level 4

• Studio Practice 4
• Dissertation
• Independent Directed Honour Studies
• Exhibition
• Oral Presentation

Level 4 provides you with a period of sustained visual enquiry and practice which will culminate in you presenting and exhibiting your work for examination at the end of the year. You will attend your choice of philosophy modules. Depending on your individual strengths and interests you will have the option of writing a dissertation that either reflects on your creative practice or engages in philosophical argument. The final semester of independent readings in philosophy culminates in a half hour presentation linking your philosophical enquiries with your artistic practice.