Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit is about visual language and its derivation from ritual, symbols, materials, technique and modes of construction. Visual language is analysed in relation to technical, aesthetic, spiritual and ideological frameworks. The reasons behind stylistic development are sought within the framework of the history of ideas, from the sacred to the economic. The forms of production analysed and evaluated include interiors and furnishings, vessels, graphic design and advertising, implements and artefacts. In tutorials students are given opportunities to develop visual and verbal skills for engaging in contemporary discourse on design.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to

1. recognize key works of design and art and place them in the appropriate social and cultural climate,
2. consider the relationships between the design, fine art and applied arts disciplines as mutually important partners in the development of visual language,
3. cultivate theoretical curiosity for the changing cultural functions of design, fine art and applied arts in the industrial period,
4. describe visual language perceptively and comment on works with critical discernment, attempting to evoke the expressive and/or ideological content of objects of design and
5. present a combination of factual and subjective arguments in an articulate and critical manner, whether spoken or written.

Assessment

Essay 1000 words: 25%
Essay 2000 words: 55%
Visual test: 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Robert Nelson

Contact hours

Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial weekly

Prerequisites

Admisison to a Design degree course