Contemporary

Making Sense of Contemporary Art

Latest update
24-Dec-2023

Material includes
Downloadable Exercise Files with images, discussion points and appendices.

Topics
20 lessons

  • What is Art?
  • Artworks and their Effects
  • Thinking About Colour
  • Medium
  • Composition
  • Interpretation and Context
  • Conclusion

Description

Level: beginner

In contrast to many art movements of the past, Contemporary Art encompasses a wide range of themes, materials, and expressions.

United by a desire to reflect on and challenge societal norms it’s expression is eclectic and ever-evolving, embracing new technologies and pushing the boundaries of what is accepted and defined as art.

Because of this, connecting with new works can sometimes be confusing and off-putting, with the traditions and familiarity of paint and sculpture being a more settling and comforting space for artistic exploration.

Focusing on art by Turner Prize-nominated artists, this course will teach you methods of art interpretation found in the study of art history, to help you connect deeper to art works, their creators, and your own appreciation of art.

After studying this course, you should be able to :

  • Identify the effects of art works
  • Understand a range of artistic techniques, such as the use of colour, composition and medium
  • Recognise the relationship between effects and techniques in a range of art works
  • Understand some of the factors involved in interpreting meaning
  • Understand the significance of context in informing the interpretation of art works

This course studies artworks from Turner-related artists including;  Chris Ofili, Tracey Emin, Paula Rego and Damien Hirst.

COURSE DURATION
10 hours

Topics
20 lessons

  • What is Art?
  • Artworks and their Effects
  • Thinking About Colour
  • Medium
  • Composition
  • Interpretation and Context
  • Conclusion

Requirements
Recommended to use a note pad and pen, or spreadsheet document (excel / numbers) for note taking. Remember to mark each section as complete when you finish, then return to this page or go to your Members' Area to pick up where you left off.

Target Audience
Art Lovers, Students and those unfamiliar with Contemporary Art.