This course deals with aspects of Australian art practice from the 1970s to the present. Where appropriate, examples of international art will be considered to place Australian art within context.

The course is issue and object oriented. Topics include the legacy of art practice of the 1970s, the development of postmodern approaches, the emergence of intercultural concerns, the artistic interchanges between Australia and the Asia/Pacific region, the emergence of urban Aboriginal art, and the significance of the advent of new technologies. Works of art in a range of media, including design and the decorative arts, will be considered.

Students are expected to engage critically with contemporary works of art in current exhibitions in Canberra. Visits to the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, Canberra Contemporary Art Space, CraftACT, the Drill Hall Gallery and other local galleries will be essential. Lectures will comprise a mix of sources and approaches; whenever possible, artists/guest speakers will also address the group. 

By the end of this course you should be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of important aspects of contemporary art in Australia
2. Relate developments in contemporary art to contemporary visual culture
3. Analyse and interpret works of Australian contemporary art in different media
4. Present written and oral arguments about contemporary art in Australia.

1000 word written essay (25%), 2500 word essay (45%) 8 minute tutorial presentation (20%) and participation (10%).

3 contact hours per week

ARTV1009, 1010; or with approval