Special problems of modern art [ LHART2340 ]

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A course of modern art (ARKE Arts et civilisation. Époque contemporaine).

The course discusses specific problems related to the interpretation of modern art including the functions of art in certain institutional and social contexts.

The course will deepen the knowledge about the production and the aesthetic concepts in modern art. It is the aim of the seminar that the student develops a critical sense and analytical methods as well as the ability to deal with a specific subject in contemporary art.

The students are evaluated on the basis of their active participation, one presentation and one thesis about a specific subject.

Talks will be given by the teacher, invited speakers and students. It is expected that the students familiarize themselves with the topics by reading one or more related articles before each session.

 The main topic to be treated during the year 2007/2008 is the impact of photography on the aesthetic discourse of art from the official birth of the medium in 1839 to the beginning of the 20th century. On the one hand, the course retraces the mutual influences between the classical genres and the new medium photography (from Delacroix to Munch and from Le Gray to Steichen). On the other hand, classical debates about the function of photography in the field of art will be discussed. The content and the structure of the course will be related to the courses Special problems of contemporary art and art and new media.

A list of articles will be provided at the beginning of the course. Kosinski, Dorothy, The Artist and the Camera. Degas to Picasso, Exposition, Museum of modern art San Francisco, 1999.

None.