Art and Visual Culture of Modern and Contemporary China

Key information

Start date
End date
Year of study
Any
Duration
Term 2
Module code
15PARH055
FHEQ Level
7
Credits
15
Department
School of Arts & Department of History of Art and Archaeology

Module overview

The module explores the multipolarity of the field of Chinese art history today by investigating the historical methodologies, canons, practices and other forces by which it has been shaped.

The module is primarily focussed on the various arts of modern and contemporary China, including but not limited to painting, calligraphy, woodblock prints, illustrated newspapers, pictorials, fashion, photography, film, animation, video art and installation. The module may follow a chronological structure with flexibility to explore diachronic themes. We will explore how media technologies have shaped art practices, cultural productions and social aesthetics from the early modern/later imperial period to the present.

We will investigate how one medium remediates another at moments of rupture in art history and/or in times of political turbulence. We will also discuss the roles of city life, travel and modern women. There is emphasis throughout on current events and initiatives in the field, including the ways art is displayed, accessed and communicated through exhibitions, websites, and cinematic means.

Workload

  • Lectures: 1 hour per week  
  • Seminars: 1 hour per week 

Method of assessment

  • One 2,000-word essay (worth 60% of marks)
  • One presentation (worth 30%)
  • Participation in and contribution to the module seminars (worth 10%)

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules.