VCO4108

major project (visual communication)

18 points
* 12 studio hours and 24 independent study hours per week
* Second semester
* Caulfield
* Prerequisites: One of the following: BFA, BAppA, BDes(IndDes), BDes(VisComm), BVA

Objectives On successful completion of this subject, students should cultivate high ambitions to perfect their practice with technical excellence and to establish a relationship between mastery in technique and the visionary dimensions of their discipline; be able to find working habits which prolifically engage the imagination and expedite both the realisation of artistic intentions and critical reflection on the results; be keen to determine - at least provisionally - suitable artistic intentions which allow them to achieve an appropriate balance between the sensual faculties and the reasoning or critical faculties; enjoy the prospect of debating or defending a given direction of practice in their discipline against critical interrogation; be keen to engage in a dialogue with the history of their chosen genre, empowering them not only with familiarity and the ability to manipulate prestigious exemplars but with the confidence to challenge the authority of historical precedents or the uncritical values imposed upon them in received histories; be curious about identifying the poetic dimension of their practice, either with reference to the symbolic use of design objects, the imagery contained in works, the tensions between conflicting semiotic expectations, the artful use of metaphor or humour or anything else; identify inspiration not only with the innovative faculties related to finding new methods or novel imagery but with the power of consolidating old aesthetic ideas with a consistent impetus genuinely felt by the artist or designer; be happy, wherever personal inspiration indicates, to embrace traditional methods and intentions, and be prepared to define traditional practice as research, provided that new or continuing applicability in the recent history of ideas can be demonstrated.

Synopsis Studio at honours level is research-oriented and is entirely non-prescriptive in the terms of its content, since there is uncertain scope and little reliability in foreshadowing the intentions and conclusions of artistic research which is contingent upon individual interests and passions. Students are expected to produce a proposal at the beginning of the semester but they are free to carry out their work with any number of deviations from their original plans, provided that student keep their lectures informed and seek their opinions. Both the intentions of students and the results of their work are debated in group discussions and critical sessions.

Assessment Assessment is by folio consisting of finished work, artist journal, supporting research and other documentation: 100%

Prescribed texts

To be advised