Analysing Arts
Full course description
Works of art and literature can be valuable sources for research in cultural studies. Yet they are sources of a particular kind that require a distinct approach and method of analysis. This skills training offers six hands-on tutorials in which a variety of visual artworks (paintings and photos) and literary texts (short stories) will be analysed in detail. The artistic materials under scrutiny are roughly related to the main course Art and Modernity (running in parallel in year 1 period 5), but instead of the main course’s historical logic this skills course is organized according to method and medium. Methodologically, the training introduces the basics of three key theoretical approaches and interdisciplinary analytical models: iconography (the study of images), semiotics (the study of signs) and narratology (the study of narrative). A series of parallel lectures offers theoretical and practical insights that help you to prepare for the weekly tutorials.
Course objectives
Upon completion of this skills course, you will be able to:
- understand and explain the basics of three methodologies/methods frequently used to analyse works of art: iconography/iconology, semiotics, narratology;
- identify and describe the distinct theoretical backgrounds on which these methodologies/methods are based;
- apply these methodologies/methods in hands-on analysis of individual artworks in different media;
- utilize the specialized analytical vocabularies that are specific to each of these methodologies/methods;
- critically evaluate the advantages and challenges of all three methodologies/methods – both in general and for research in Arts & Culture.
Recommended reading
Several articles and chapters from various books provided during the course.