Art + Philosophy Now module (PI31020)

This module provides an introduction to some philosophical theories currently influential in the discourse surrounding contemporary art. It also covers core philosophical issues concerning the nature of the relationship between philosophy and art.

Key questions explored in this module include:

• how can philosophy enhance an artists’ self-understanding and practice?
• what is the role of philosophy in art theory, art exhibition catalogues, and artists’ own creative practices and written justifications of those practices?
• conversely, what can art offer to philosophy?
• how do art and philosophy function in relation to each other and to the world?
• what is the social and political function of art and philosophy?
• do they have distinct roles and functions, or are art and philosophy similar kinds of activities?

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• gain a substantial philosophical understanding of some key issues in contemporary philosophy of art
• learn about some leading arguments concerning the nature of art in its relation to philosophy
• advance your own understanding of the possible relationships between art and philosophy
• engage critically with texts, particularly in the genre(s) of philosophical art commentary

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• recognise and engage with the philosophical dimensions of the discourses surrounding contemporary art
• achieve a critical understanding of the philosophical complexities and questions involved in the art-philosophy relationship
• form your own views concerning some key problems in contemporary philosophy of art
• have honed your skills in interpreting challenging texts
• respond to challenging works of art in an informed way

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (40%)
  • option 1: textual commentary 1,000 words
  • option 2: practical project (art work) with 700-word written justification
• essay - 2,000 words (60%)

This module does not have a final examination.

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures
• interactive tutorials