Units / AHT3001
AHT3001 · Art writing and criticism
2027 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 3Department of Fine Art
Overview
Art writing and criticism introduces writing about art as a practical, critical and public-facing dimension of art history. You will explore the different registers, genres and venues in which art is discussed today, including academic journals, magazines, newspapers, online platforms and emerging forms of digital publishing. The unit combines theoretical perspectives on the histories and purposes of art writing with practical exercises in writing across different styles and formats. You will develop the habit of writing about art as a practice, while considering how art-historical knowledge can be used in the public arena. The unit also encourages you to think critically about the future of art criticism in the age of the internet and electronic media, including new opportunities for publishing, audience engagement and professional practice.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Caulfield | First semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Literature review | Written | 20% | — |
| 2 | Art catalogue | Written | 40% | — |
| 3 | Exhibition review | Written | 40% | — |
100% in-semester assessment
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prohibition
Learning outcomes
- Identify and analyse the different places and formats in which the discussion of art takes place;
- Demonstrate practical mastery of the various genres and styles of art writing;
- Connect art-historical knowledge to practical and vocational outcomes in art writing, criticism, publishing and curatorial contexts;
- Analyse how different audiences, venues and media shape the responsibilities, voice and public role of the art writer;
- Evaluate the role, value and future possibilities of art writing and criticism in the twenty-first century;
- Apply good work habits with regard to your own art writing practice, including drafting, revising and responding to feedback.
Workload
12 hours per week including 3 contact hours plus 9 hours of independent study.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Seminars | 12 hours |
| Tutorials | 24 hours |
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