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 traces the influence of games on art and artists from early twentieth-century Dada to twenty-first century data technologies. Particular attention is devoted to the role games have played in art as counter-cultural systems; the way games have been appropriated and created in art and the way they have been used by artists as accessible vehicles for the articulation of wider social, political and cultural issues. The unit provides students with the essential tools for engaging with, researching and recognising alternative art histories to the dominant narratives. It gives students an awareness of the key debates surrounding the intersection of art and games. The current influence of games on art is located within wider art historical contexts, enabling students to better understand social, political and ideological shifts that have led to today. Students also develop the general ability to conduct independent research in novel areas and an ability to think creatively and clearly and construct and express new ideas and arguments.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 option in the History of Art major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) identify and understand a diverse range of texts, ideas and art forms from the early days of Modernism through to the Digital era; (2) comprehensibly articulate knowledge specific to the field in both written and spoken form and apply such knowledge to the analysis of art; (3) integrate visual and aesthetic analysis of artworks into historical and theoretical arguments; (4) discern the intersecting theoretical approaches that converge upon the combination of art and the ludic; (5) make a clear and logical argument with theoretical underpinning and critical evaluation of the literature; and (6) make substantial connections between digital art and the broader cultural milieu.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) short essay; (2) research essay; and (3) seminar presentation. 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)
Dr Christina Chau
Unit rules
Prerequisites
at least one Level 2 unit from the History of Art major sequence
Incompatibility
VISA2210 Art and Games: from Dada to Data, VISA3310 Art and Games: from Dada to Data
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 1 hour 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.