Material and Process in Art

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 4
• Assessment: two essays of 1000 words (33%) and 2000 words (66%)

Why do art materials matter? The aim of the module is to make you aware of the ways in which different materials have been used at different periods and how different media have historically acquired specific meanings and connotations. Starting in the medieval period and working through to the present day, the module will address the use and valuation of materials including stone, wood, glass, metal, textiles paint, print, found objects, the artists' body, and digital media.

It will involve visits to museums, galleries, and places of art production, and for your assessment you will research specific objects that are currently on show in a London gallery.

The module aims to:

• contribute to a sound training in the discipline of history of art
• enable you to develop your knowledge of materials and processes used in art from the medieval period to the present day
• enhance your critical awareness of the social and cultural contexts of the production and reception of art, specifically the cultural significance of particular materials and how their values and meanings have changed through time
• enhance your ability to observe, identify and analyse works of visual culture
• offer opportunities to develop subject-specific skills and a range of transferable skills
• provide intellectual stimulus and challenges for those studying for personal development.

On successful completion of this module, you will be expected to have:

• acquired a detailed knowledge of materials and processes used in art from the medieval period to the present day
• developed the ability to observe, identify and analyse works of visual culture
• developed a critical awareness of the functions of such works within the social and cultural contexts of their production and reception
• become familiar with current debates and approaches to the subject
• developed your ability to analyse and interpret critically historical evidence
• developed your ability to read critically and analyse the secondary literature
• developed your ability to construct and present coherent arguments orally and in writing
• been encouraged to develop effective skills of presentation and communication
• been encouraged to develop skills in managing computer and audio-visual technology and resources
• been encouraged to develop skills of constructive debate
• increased responsibility for your own learning by undertaking independent research.