DESA3001 Major 4
The details for the course, Major 4 (DESA3001), apply to all of the following topics. Specific descriptions for Syllabus and Proposed Assessment that apply to each topic are detailed below.
Ceramics
Syllabus
Two or more projects, each of which may run for the duration of up to half a semester, and which concentrate on aspects of the ceramic surface and address the meaning of surface. One of these projects will be wheel-based and one will be off-wheel. The projects may include decorative techniques that are applied, or those created through the manipulation of clay or its firing (eg. salt, wood, saggar raku or black firings). Use of plaster in the form of working surface may be included. Two short pieces of research on the broader ceramic field and documentation/presentation of this research is required.
Contact: Head of Ceramics Workshop, Janet DeBoos
Furniture
Syllabus
Students extend their studies through the engagement with the production of such large projects as a workbench. Introductions to machine shop practice and safety as relevant to full-scale making.
Contact: Head of Furniture Workshop, Rodney Hayward
Glass
Syllabus
The focus continues in the areas of kiln forming, hot glass skills development, learning cold working techniques and glass history. Fundamentals taught in practical kiln forming areas include fusing, kiln use and cold working techniques. In the hot shop students continue to develop technical skills while in the cold shop, cutting using lathes with stone and diamond wheels, and other cold working techniques are introduced. Students also begin to determine their own directions with the material.
Contact: Head of Glass Workshop, Richard Whiteley
Gold and Silversmithing
Syllabus
Students extend their studies by developing individual themes and work methods. The programs of study are project-oriented and concentrate on developing students' skills and on choosing and applying techniques appropriate to their particular tasks. There is a greater emphasis on the use of varied methods in the same work and the use of new materials. Different combinations of materials are introduced. Individual projects are decided upon in consultation with Workshop staff. Throughout reference is made to the history of gold and silversmithing so that students become aware of the context in which their subject has evolved.
Contact: Head of Gold & Silversmithing Workshop, Johannes Kuhnen
Sculpture
Syllabus
Students are encouraged to pursue personal interests and approaches to making through independent research (Individual Work Proposal, IWP). Sculpture supports students wishing to participate in Environmental Studio Field Studies trips and programs as part of the IWP. An experimental and expansive approach to making is encouraged and students exploit a range of conceptual, thematic and design considerations to facilitate personal concerns in the field. Independent research facilities a growing understanding of critical and theoretical issues underpinning making. A short course in video allows students to explore site specificity and spatial issues as they apply to sculptural installation. Studio theory facilitates approaches to independent research while continuing to develop critical awareness of artists, ideas and approaches to making. A demonstrated understanding of Occupational Health and Safety issues and responsibilities of the artist as they have been introduced through procedures and studio management is necessary.
Contact: Head of Sculpture Workshop, Wendy Teakel
Textiles
Syllabus
The program is structured around projects, visiting artists and the development of individual themes and experimental work methods. Technical skills are taught in tapestry, weave, screenprinting, computer aided design for digital printing and applied design. Studio theory covers historical and contemporary textile practice and student's deliver presentations on individual research projects to develop a context for their own art practice.
Contact: Head of Textiles Workshop, Valerie Kirk
The information published on the Study at ANU 2012 website applies to the 2012 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2011 website.
