Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit examines the principles, methods, and applications of curatorial practice. Practical skills such as marketing, budgeting, grant writing and information distribution will be developed and the roles of sponsorship, philanthropy and exhibition coordination will be examined. Key themes include the roles and responsibilities of institutional-based gallery exhibitions, the use of alternative and non-gallery based exhibition spaces, exhibition design, and the dynamics and social relations that shape the context of curatorial practice. Students are given an opportunity to discuss emergent issues, explore practical methods, grapple with theoretical problems and form arguments through written and applied research. This unit will be partly taught in art organisations within the museum and gallery sector so that students can acquire an experiential grounding in the processes and practices of curating with particular reference to the Australian context. Curatorial Practice is a core unit for students enrolled in the Fine Arts Major.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Fine Arts major sequence
  • Level 2 option in the Indigenous Knowledge, History and Heritage major sequence
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate creative and analytical skills and a knowledge of forms, materials and technologies to realise an exhibition design proposal; (2) discuss the range of display conventions used in contemporary culture, and the reasons for their use in different contexts; (3) discuss the processes involved in staging an art exhibition or art event; (4) apply interdisciplinary problem-solving skills as they relate to exhibition development; and (5) communicate information, ideas and proposals effectively in written and oral modes.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) written work; (2) exhibition or event proposal; and (3) oral presentation(s). Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Sarah Douglas
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
one level 1 Unit(s) in your chosen degree
Incompatibility
VISA2051 Curatorial Practices
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
Fine Arts consumables (estimated cost - $75-$350).
Contact hours
Up to 3 hours per week.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.