VISUAL ARTS

The course will provide students with a grounding in approaches to the disciplines of visual arts. After introducing some key methods of visual analysis such as iconography/iconology, formalism, Marxism, the course explore key concepts, themes, and approaches in visual arts with the aim of encouraging students to analyse and question what is visual culture; how visual culture is produced and experienced in relation to contemporary art practices as well as new media. Central to the course will be an introduction to the current debates in the philosophy of contemporary art related to feminist and postcolonial theories of the embodiment of gender and cultural diversity and their representation in art and visual culture. Differing contemporary approaches to understanding the aesthetic value of nature and the natural environment will be also explored, as well as older concepts, such as the picturesque, natural beauty and the sublime establishing connections with the issues of climate change and environmental degradation. Taking Venice and other major heritage sites as its starting point, a final module will be devoted to the role of museums and exhibitions as interpreters of modern life.

On completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1) apply visual analysis skills;
2) demonstrate an understanding of theories, concepts, principles, and terminology relevant to visual arts and their relationship to the production and reception of contemporary art practices.
3) critically analyse and synthesise ideas, concepts, information, and issues concerning approaches to visual culture and contemporary art practices
4) think about urban heritage in historical perspective.

There are no specific prerequisites. A general knowledge of European history and of another European language can be of great benefit for a better comprehension of the subject matter.

The course will consist of four modules each respectively devoted to:
1) Defining the visual arts: the structure of art; significance of materials and media;
2) Themes in art;
3) Connecting art to our lives: art and power; expressing identity; ethical issues in art;
4) Collecting and displaying the arts

A bibliography, including mandatory readings and further suggestions, will be provided at the beginning of the course.

The programme’s regulations require that students attend 80% of classes and reach the passing grade of 18/30 (60%) in all evaluations.
Evaluation consists of:
- oral presentation; 40% of the mark);
-Final exam (written exam; 60% of the mark).

The course combines traditional frontal teaching sessions (lectures) with visits to museums and students’ presentations.

English

written and oral