TAD2402

Issues and problems in the visual arts 2A

6 points - One 2-hour lecture, one 1-hour tutorial and 9 independent study hours per week - Second semester - Caulfield - Prerequisites: TAD1101 and TAD1102 - Prohibitions: TAD2412, TAD3402, TAD3412, FNA2123, and FNA2124 - Elective

Objectives On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to critically examine questions and theories about various art forms; provide reasons for deciding the truth or falsity of assertions and arguments about the nature and role of the visual arts.

Synopsis This subject introduces a number of philosophical problems about the visual arts. What is art? What is a paradigm of art? Are there central and marginal forms of art? What is taste? Can taste be taught? Is there such a thing as aesthetic experience? Do statements of critical judgement perform any useful function? What is a theory of art, and how might a theory of art be assessed? The subject introduces both classical and contemporary views and includes material drawn from artists, historians, and critics as well as philosophers. Examples are chosen from various modes of art including the fine arts, applied arts, and experimental arts.

Assessment Two essays: 50% each

Prescribed texts

Alperson P (ed.) The philosophy of the visual arts OUP, 1992

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