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 how visual representations have been constructed, circulated and seen throughout history. Exploring themes such as beauty and ugliness, identity, and the economics of art, the unit investigates the meaning of images and objects across time and cultures. Each week offers a different methodological approach to analysing art, allowing students to explore how lenses such as gender, race or politics shape our understanding of visual forms. By experimenting with different ways of seeing, students gain insight into how the value of art and visual representation has evolved over time. How we see affects what we see and the unit enhances visual literacy while honing each student's critical eye. Emphasising oral and written communication as well as refining research skills, the unit has broad applications to a variety of different disciplines and encourages students to become critical viewers of our increasingly visual world.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Fine Arts; History of Art major sequences
  • Level 1 option in the Humanities in Health and Medicine major sequence
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) identify various methodologies used in analysing visual representations from a diverse range of cultures; (2) employ and compare different modes of visual analysis; (3) use a range of different texts and cultural perspectives to improve basic historical and critical interpretations of images in different cultural and global contexts; (4) acquire research skills for art historiography and employ different theoretical approaches in essay writing; and (5) develop communication skills in interpersonal relations, oral discussion, and essay writing about art and design.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) quizzes and final test; (2) written work; and (3) discursive learning. 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)
Associate Professor Emily Brink
Contact hours
Lectures: 2 hours per week
Tutorials: 1 hour per week
Note
This unit examines art history through a theoretical lens. In its content and outcomes, the unit pairs well with the historical focus of HART1000 Great Moments in Art, but may be taken independently as well.
  • 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.