ARTS3401W: Critical Theories and Their Construction From a Studio Perspective

How do artists read and write theory? What roles can ideas play in the creative process? This course investigates practices and theories that inform the work of contemporary artists. Through a combination of readings, lectures, asynchronous discussions, writing assignments, and experiments in practice and prose, we will explore some significant questions that lie at the crossroads of ethics and aesthetics. We will also dig into our own practices as artists, writers, and thinkers to understand more fully how ethics and aesthetics intersect in what we do. Readings include texts by visual artists and poets, articles from art journals, as well as essays by art historians and critics of visual culture. This course utilizes writing and critical thinking to deepen each student's connection to contemporary art and to reflect on their own aesthetic experiences. As a writing intensive course, ARTS3401W: Critical Theories emphasizes writing as a multi-purpose tool for making sense of—and with—art. While not required, it is recommended that students take ARTS 1001 prior to 3401W. Prerequisite: Junior or Instructor Consent.

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