VSA4076

Australian postmodernism

(ART)

Leigh Astbury

12 points + 2 hours per week + Second semester + Clayton

Synopsis: The recurring issues of regionalism and internationalism will be addressed in art and architecture, as will interpretations of Australia as the site of international congruence and influence. The subject will move from discussion of the American influence of The Field exhibition of 1968 to the 'pluralism' of the 1970s: minimal art, performance art and feminism. The focus on the 1980s and 1990s will address some of the following: neo-expressionism, appropriation, nomadology, aboriginality, theoretical issues and the current status of Australian art, including recent developments in abstraction, installation, gay art and 'angry women.'

Assessment: First seminar paper (2500 words): 25% + Second seminar paper (2500 words): 35% + Essay (4000 words): 40%