First year courses

FIN1009S

Images In Conflict: Politics, Power And Propaganda

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 18 at level 5.
  First year, second semester course

• Course code

  FIN1009S

• Course outline

  This course considers the social and political power of the visual, the capacity of art and visual culture to engage historical events and influence behaviour. The course focuses on art and visual cultures produced in response to specific moments of crisis in the period 1848-2010 through case studies of contested visual imagery and artefacts. The course examines the vital role played by the visual in producing, expressing and representing social and cultural processes, including inciting resistance and revolution, maintaining public order, and inspiring fear, awe or adoration.

• Entrance requirements

  None

• Lecture times

  Three lectures, 1 tutorial, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday – 5th period.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutors and satisfactory completion of 2 assignments per semester.

• Assessment

  Coursework (50%), 2 hour examination (50%)

FIN1008W

Foundations Of Visual Literacy

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 5.
  Compulsory whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN1008W

• Course convenor(s)

  Fabian Saptouw

• Course outline

  The course introduces creative thinking and critical and visual literacy, paying attention to academic reading and writing and communication skills. Case studies will be used to introduce students to core concepts, issues, theories and approaches to knowledge-construction. The common theme will be “representation and display” and the ways in which this reflects power, politics, gender and identity. Students will be introduced to both African and other comparative examples. The course will have a contemporary focus and where appropriate will explore historical origins.  This course aims to enable students  to articulate and contextualise their own creative production and visualisation and visual retention will be stressed.

• Entrance requirements

  Faculty admission.
  Students registered for the BA(FA) Extended Degree are required to take this as a core course in their first year of study. The course aims to build skills of critical visual and textual analysis, and does so within the ordinary undertakings of FIN1005W, with supplementary lectures and tutorials.
  

• Lecture times

  Tuesday and Thursday, 12h00 to 13h30.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials, 80% of weekly assignments and satisfactory completion of 1 essay assignment per semester.

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 70%, 2-hour examination in November 30%. This course is examined simultaneously with FIN1005W.

FIN1001W

Studiowork 1

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 72 at level 5.
  Compulsory whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN1001W

• Course convenor(s)

  Kurt Campbell

• Course outline

  Drawing, two and three-dimensional problem-solving.Projects incorporating: figure-drawing, object-drawing, use of different drawing materials, working procedures and processes, colour theory and its application in painting, three-dimensional work in clay, plaster, cardboard and wood; introduction to New Media, Printmaking and Photography.

• Entrance requirements

  This course is open only to students registered for BA(FA).

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN1006F

The Emergence of Modernity

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 18 at level 5.
  First-year, first-semester course, three lectures per week.

• Course code

  FIN1006F

• Course convenor(s)

  Andrew Lamprecht, Rael Salley

• Course outline

  This course focuses on the emergence of modernity in art and visual culture from ca  1850-2000, and includes African perspectives.  Taught in a combination of a thematic and chronological survey, the course covers the major art movements and ideas key to understanding this period.  Students will develop basic skills in visual analysis, critical thinking and writing about art and visual imagery as well as approaches to visual and textual research.  Students will also engage contemporary debates in and about visual modernity.

• Entrance requirements

  None

• Lecture times

  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 2nd period – Hiddingh Campus; Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 5th period – Upper Campus.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials and satisfactory completion of 2 assignments per semester.

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 50%, 2-hour examination 50%.

FIN1005W

Fine Art Foundation

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 5.

  Compulsory whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN1005W

• Course convenor(s)

  Fabian Saptouw

• Course outline

  The course introduces creative thinking and critical and visual literacy, paying attention to academic reading and writing and communication skills. Case studies will be used to introduce core concepts, issues, theories and approaches to knowledge-construction. The common theme will be “representation and display” and the ways in which this reflects power, politics, gender and identity. Students will be introduced to both African and other comparative examples. This course aims to enable students to articulate and contextualise their own creative production. Visualisation and visual retention will be stressed. Fieldwork in the form of gallery visits introduces art criticism and reporting.

• Entrance requirements

  This course is open only to students registered for BA(FA).

• Lecture times

  Tuesday and Thursday, 12h00 to 13h30.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials, 80% of weekly assignments and satisfactory completion of 1 essay assignment per semester.

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 70%, 2-hour examination in November 30%.

Second year courses

FIN2030S

visual cultures: space and place

History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 6.
  Second year, second semester course

• Course code

  FIN2030S

• Course convenor(s)

  Anna Tietze

• Course outline

  This course analyses how visual cultures are related to their environments, and how they respond to them. Operating at two levels, it studies the institutional structure (including art institutions) of successful visual cultures of the past, and engages the art historical question of how those cultures visualised their relationship to their surroundings. The latter involves study of attitudes towards space and place, as expressed through a variety of visual media.

• Entrance requirements

  At least 2 courses in historical, social science or cultural studies offered by the Faculty of Humanities, or by permission of the Head of Department.

• Lecture times

  Three lectures one tutorial, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 2nd period.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at 80% of tutorials; satisfactory completion of all written assignments. Late essays penalised by 5% per day (including weekends).

• Assessment

  Coursework 50%; one 2-hour exam 50%.

FIN2026W

core practice 2

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 6.
  Compulsory whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN2026W

• Course convenor(s)

  Fritha Langerman

• Course outline

  Traditional and contemporary approaches to drawing as well as the development of visual research methods.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1001W Studiowork 1

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 40%, year-end coursework examination 40%. 20% yearmark derived from the visual research book.

FIN2025W

new media 2

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 6.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN2025W

• Course convenor(s)

  Carinne Zaayman and Kurt Campbell

• Course outline

  Introduction to the theory and practice of new media including digital image manipulation, vector based graphics and animation

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1001W Studiowork 1

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN2024W

printmedia 2

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 6.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN2024W

• Course convenor(s)

  Stephen Inggs and Fritha Langerman

• Course outline

  Introduction to the theory and practice of printmaking including intaglio, relief and lithographic techniques and bookarts. Conceptual engagement with both historical and contemporary aspects of printmaking.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1001W Studiowork 1

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN2029F

envisioning the body: representations of the human in art and visual culture

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 6.
  Second-year, first-semester course.

• Course code

  FIN2029F

• Course outline

  This course explores the imaging of the body as both the subject and site of representation. With reference to art-historical examples, it examines some of the many ways the human body has been visualised to produce, express and represent significant cultural ideas and social forces. Furthermore it considers the powerful social role that body imagery has played in history. This will include visual representations of health and sickness, the visual commemoration of faces/bodies of power, the religious use of the human figure, and the visual tradition of the rational vs sensuous body.

• Entrance requirements

  At least 2 courses in historical, social science or cultural studies offered by the Faculty of Humanities, or by permission of the Head of Department.

• Lecture times

  Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 2nd period

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials and satisfactory completion of 2 assignments per semester. Late essays penalised by 5% per day (including weekends).

• Assessment

  Coursework 50%, 2-hour examination in June 50%.

FIN2028S

discursive strategies: innovation and adaption

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 6.
  Second-year, second-semester course.

• Course code

  FIN2028S

• Course convenor(s)

  Andrew Lamprecht, Rael Salley

• Course outline

  This course explores the urban environment in contemporary art practice and theory.  We consider in particular the artist and artistic collectives focusing on the city, urban life, space, the body and technologies in Africa and across the globe.  In part of the course students will engage the city in their own creative practice. Students will build skills in visual analysis, critical thinking and writing about art and visual imagery as well as approaches to visual and textual research.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1006F and FIN1009S

• Lecture times

  Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 4th period

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials and satisfactory completion of 2 assignments per semester. Late essays penalised by 5% per day (including weekends).

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 50%, 2-hour examination 50%.

FIN2027F

Art Narratives: Traditions And Tensions

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 6.
  Second-year, first-semester course.

• Course code

  FIN2027F

• Course convenor(s)

  Andrew Lamprecht, Rael Salley.

• Course outline

  This course considers Western theories of art and aesthetics operating in contemporary art, with a significant focus on Africa.  We explore the tensions and continuities between different perspectives on art practice and theory, including new art historical narratives, the discourses of feminism, social theory and postcoloniality in a global context. Students will build skills in visual analysis, critical thinking and writing about art  and visual imagery as well as approaches to visual and textual research.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1006F and FIN1009S

• Lecture times

  Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 4th period

• Dp requirements

  At least 70% attendance of tutorials and satisfactory completion of 2 assignments per semester. Late essays penalised by 5% per day (including weekends).

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 50%, 2-hour examination 50%.

FIN2013W

Photography 2

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 6.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN2013W

• Course convenor(s)

  Svea Josephy and Jean Brundrit

• Course outline

  Introduction to theory and practice of photography in the form of specific problem solving projects, including darkroom process for black and white film and systems of exposure for film and digital imaging.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1001W Studiowork 1

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN2012W

Sculpture 2

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 6.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN2012W

• Course convenor(s)

  Jane Alexander, Johann van der Schijff

• Course outline

  Intermediate problem-solving. Projects incorporating: metalwork: joining, brazing, welding; modelling and casting: plaster moulding, casting in wax, plaster, ciment fondu; ceramics: hand-building, slabwork, press-moulding, slip-casting; projects that incorporate woodcarving, construction and assemblage.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1001W Studiowork 1

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%

FIN2011W

Painting 2

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 6.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN2011W

• Course convenor(s)

  Virginia MacKenny

• Course outline

  Broad exposure to a range of painting techniques including acrylic and oil.  Emphasis on mimetic skills, development of colour and composition and conceptual engagement with contemporary painting.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1001W Studiowork 1

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

Third year courses

FIN3010H

theory and practice of art 3

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 7.
  Compulsory third-year half-course given over whole year.

• Course code

  FIN3010H

• Course convenor(s)

  Andrew Lamprecht

• Course outline

  Theory and Practice of Art 3 develops independent historical / theoretical research in selected aspects of contemporary South African or African art.  Students choose a topic in consultation with the lecturer.  There is a major emphasis on primary research in this course. Topics could focus on an artist or art collective, curating, a significant exhibition, debate or text, or any artworld event or initiative.  Each student will produce a written proposal outlining the research task, and then the completed research, which will be a fully referenced, illustrated long essay.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1006F and FIN1009S and a pass in Studiowork courses allowing entry into third year.

• Lecture times

  Tuesday and Friday, 3rd period.

• Dp requirements

  At least 70% attendance of lectures and satisfactory presentation of seminar paper.

• Assessment

  Submission of senior research project 100%.

FIN3030H

studiowork 3 electives

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 7.
  Compulsory half-year course. Students are required to choose two electives from the following options (in some years, not all options will be available):
  Videography
  Animation and motion graphics
  Curatorship
  Lithography and screenprinting
  Computer aided design
  Social responsibility
  Physical computing
  Historical photographic processes

• Course code

  FIN3030H

• Course convenor(s)

  Jane Alexander

• Course outline

  This course exposes students to alternative forms of art production outside of their major Studiowork areas. Contemporary in orientation, the various sub-courses will familiarize students with developments in digital image production, video editing and computer aided design as well as social responsiveness and curatorship. A strong creative relationship to other Studiowork options will be sought. Fieldwork introduces new technologies and methodologies as well as industrial applications of computer design and manufacturing techniques.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2026W and two of FIN2011W, FIN2012W, FIN2013W, FIN2024W, FIN2025W

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN3029S

critical studies in art history and visual culture

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 7.
  Third-year, second-semester course.

• Course code

  FIN3029S

• Course outline

  This course develops themes and competencies addressed in FIN3028F Art and Theory. Building on the knowledge of historiographic methods introduced in that course, this second semester course offers a deeper understanding of art and visual history as disciplinary practices. Focused seminars on methods and topics introduce students to high-level, independent research that results in an extended research paper on a subject of their choice.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1006F, FIN1009S, FIN2029F, FIN2030S, FIN3028F or FAM2004F

• Lecture times

  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 5th period.

• Dp requirements

  50% of coursework completed and satisfactory submission of research paper.

• Assessment

  Assignments 15%, Research paper 85%

FIN3028F

art and theory

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 7.
  Third-year, first-semester course.

• Course code

  FIN3028F

• Course convenor(s)

  Anna Tietze

• Course outline

  This course considers the theoretical issues raised by visual artefacts, in particular the way in which the history of art, the historical study of images, has evolved as a subject since the beginning of the 20th century, and how this field relates to the practical one of art-museum management and curatorship. Some of the issues addressed include: the status of the art expert, authentication, forgery and artistic value, art and social context, private and public art collecting, and the social and artistic function of the art museum.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN1006F, FIN1009S, FIN2029F, FIN2030S or FAM2004F

• Lecture times

  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 5th period.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance at tutorials and satisfactory completion of written assignments.

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 50%; 2-hour examination 50%.

FIN3027S

strategies for art in times of change

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 7.
  Third-year, second-semester course, one lecture per week.

• Course code

  FIN3027S

• Course convenor(s)

  Andrew Lamprecht, Rael Salley

• Course outline

  This course focuses on a basic understanding the history and development key concepts underpinning contemporary art practice and theory, including ‘modernity’, ‘postmodernity’, ‘postcoloniality’  ‘subjectivity’, ‘otherness’, ‘image’,  ‘art’, and ‘aesthetics’.  This focus will enable students to situate their own creative practice within the contemporary moment. Students will develop advanced skills in visual analysis, critical thinking and writing about art and visual imagery as well as approaches to visual and textual research.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2027F and FIN2028S

• Lecture times

  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 3rd period.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials and supervisory meetings. Adequate submission of semester assignments.

• Assessment

  Semester coursework and presentation of seminar paper 50%; 2-hour examination 50%.

FIN3026F

new art: new perspectives

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 7.
  Third-year, first-semester course.

• Course code

  FIN3026F

• Course convenor(s)

  Andrew Lamprecht, Rael Salley

• Course outline

  This course focuses on the way developments in technology have transformed contemporary artistic practice, theory and reception. Included here is coverage of weblogs the engage with African and global art practice, as well as artistic practice deeply involved with new forms of social networking. Students will develop advanced skills in visual analysis, critical thinking and writing about art and visual imagery, visual and textual research approaches.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2027H and FIN2028S

• Lecture times

  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 3rd period.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of tutorials and satisfactory completion of 2 assignments per semester.

• Assessment

  Semester coursework 50% and 2-hour examination 50%.

FIN3025W

new media 3

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 48 at level 7.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN3025W

• Course convenor(s)

  Carinne Zaayman

• Course outline

  Advanced digital techniques in which the output remains digital. Web design, animation, interactive CD production, videography. Fieldwork includes new technology and methodology as well as industrial applications of new media techniques.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2025W New Media 2.

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN3024W

printmedia 3

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 48 at level 7.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN3024W

• Course convenor(s)

  Stephen Inggs and Fritha Langerman

• Course outline

  Photomechanical print technologies: lithography, screen printing; colour printing; digital applications used in the production of books; curatorship; catalogue and exhibition design. Conceptual emphasis on the expansion of notions of print.   Fieldwork introduces industrial methodology and processing techniques.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2024W Printmedia 2.

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN3013W

photography 3

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 48 at level 7.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN3013W

• Course convenor(s)

  Svea Josephy and Jean Brundrit

• Course outline

  Advanced photographic techniques and related problem-solving projects during first semester leading to self-motivated specialisation in second semester. Fieldwork introduces new technology and methodology as well as conceptual thinking in alternative environments.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2013W Photography 2.

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN3012W

sculpture 3

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 48 at level 7.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN3012W

• Course convenor(s)

  Jane Alexander

• Course outline

  Advanced problem-solving and sculpture techniques. Large scale works based on FIN2012W Sculpture 2 including introduction to bronze casting, metal-working and ceramic techniques.  Fieldwork introduces site-specific installations as an aspect of professional practice. Participants develop proposals for self-motivated creative projects in the second semester.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN2012W Sculpture 2.

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

FIN3011W

painting 3

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 48 at level 7.
  Optional whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN3011W

• Course convenor(s)

  Virginia MacKenny

• Course outline

  • First semester: emphasis on exploring the materiality of paint and ideas generation.
  • Second semester: self-motivated development of own work  conceived within the terrain of contemporary painting.

• Entrance requirements

  Entrance requirements: FIN2011W Painting 2.

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00.

• Dp requirements

  At least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques, satisfactory completion of all projects.

• Assessment

  Mid-year coursework examination 50%, year-end coursework examination 50%.

Fourth year courses

FIN4015W

fine art 4

Fine Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 108 at level 8.
  Compulsory whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN4015W

• Course convenor(s)

  [Discipline specific]

• Course outline

  This course is self-motivated study and research into a specialised area of contemporary fine art practice that may include painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography or new media.

• Entrance requirements

  A FIN3000W third-year studiowork course

• Lecture times

  Monday to Friday, 09h00 to 17h00

• Dp requirements

  Satisfactory presentation of coursework at mid-year assessment, at least 80% attendance of studio classes and critiques.

• Assessment

  Year-end coursework examination 100%

FIN4011H

theory and practice of art 4

Fine Art, History of Art

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 36 at level 8.
  Compulsory fourth-year half-course given over whole year.

• Course code

  FIN4011H

• Course convenor(s)

  Pippa Skotnes

• Course outline

  As with FIN3010H this is a lecture/seminar based theory half course taught over the whole year.  The course is directly related to creative practice.  Students will produce a fully illustrated catalogue of their work with a framing essay for their final submission.  The catalogue should show familiarity with critical aspects of contemporary art practice relevant to their creative work, including sources, context, artists.  Students should engage with contemporary theorizations of current art practice, and be able to use these in an appropriate way in their catalogue submission.

• Entrance requirements

  FIN3010H Theory and Practice of Art 3. However, in exceptional circumstances where good academic reasons exist, students may, with the permission of Senate, register for Theory and Practice of Art 3 and 4 concurrently in their fourth year.

• Lecture times

  Friday 2nd and 3rd period

• Dp requirements

  The submission of satisfactory assignments and satisfactory participation in the
  work of the class.

• Assessment

  Senior research project 70%; June test 20%; catalogue 10%.

Postgraduate courses

FIN5050W

Minor Dissertation

Fine Art

• Course description

  96 NQF credits at HEQSF level 9

• Course code

  FIN5050W

• Course convenor(s)

  Associate Professor VM MacKenny

• Course outline

  A dissertation completed under supervision which shows thorough practical and/or academic knowledge of the approved subject and methods of research, and evidence of independent critical power in the handling and interpretation of material already known or newly discovered, may embody such original work of others as may be pertinent, may include the candidate’s own published material on the same subject, if the prior permission of the Senate has been obtained. The dissertation must be the candidate’s own work and any contributions to and quotations in the dissertation must be cited and referenced.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for the MPhil specialising in Environmental Humanities.

• Dp requirements

  Consultation with Supervisor.

• Assessment

  A dissertation no more than 25,000 words in length.

FIN5013F

Earth, Ecology, Humanities

Fine Art

• Course description

  6 NQF credits at HEQSF level 9

• Course code

  FIN5013F

• Course convenor(s)

  Associate Professor VM MacKenny

• Course outline

  Environmental Concerns in Contemporary Visual Art: This course comprises three seminars focusing on environmental concerns within Contemporary Visual Arts. Challenging traditional genres such as landscape and flower painting, discussion will engage the terms ‘nature’ and ‘landscape’ within the context of the Anthropocene and the global environmental crisis. The course has a special focus on artistic responses and representation to climate change and land degradation within Southern Africa.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for the MPhil in Environmental Humanities.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all projects and written work.

• Assessment

  One 2,500-word essay.

FIN5002W

MPhil specialising in Fine Art

Fine Art

• Course description

  The Master of Philosophy in Fine Art is offered where specialist interdisciplinary research extends outside the usual master’s degree or where the degree confers a formal professional status.

  Examination is by way of a dissertation, and where appropriate, an exhibition or presentation of related creative work.

• Course code

  FIN5002W

• Entrance requirements

  Admission and curriculum rules for Master of Arts in Fine Art FIN5003W apply.

FIN5004W

Master of Fine Art

Fine Art

• Course description

  The Master of Fine Art is intended for those wishing to undertake advanced study in any studiowork discipline or an interdisciplinary course of study approved by the School. Examination is by way of an exhibition (or an equivalent approved by the School) and appropriate documentation. This programme develops the ability to conduct independent research in an area of choice, with a methodology appropriate to the project. Students refine their proposal in consultation with supervisors during the first semester of study and expand this into a professional exhibition that demonstrates a sound understanding of a range of historical, theoretical and philosophical approaches to art. Theory and practice is seen as integral and the practical submission is accompanied by a 5000 – 10 000 word explication, the form of which is dictated by the nature of the research project. The programme includes a weekly reading group in the first year, weekly seminars, annual progress reviews and a fieldtrip to a major contemporary exhibition.

• Course code

  FIN5004W

• Course convenor(s)

  Associate Professor V MacKenny

• Course outline

  (a) A candidate must work under the supervision of a supervisor appointed by Senate.

  (b) Each candidate is required to present at least one seminar paper to the postgraduate seminar programme during each year of registration. Attendance at all postgraduate seminars is compulsory. Failure to attend or present seminar papers as required may lead to suspension from the programme.

  (c) A candidate must submit his/her work for review during the third term of the first year of study. Re-registration is dependent upon the success of this review.

  (d) A candidate must submit for exhibition under the auspices of the Michaelis School of Fine Art a body of his or her own creative work which makes an original contribution in the selected field of art. This work must have been produced during the period of registration and must not have been publicly exhibited prior to submission and examination without the prior, written permission of the University

• Entrance requirements

  (a) Faculty Rules FM3 apply.
  (b) Programme requirements:
  • An upper second-class pass in Fine Art IV.
  • An upper second-class pass in an approved 3000-level Humanities course or an overall upper second class-pass in Theory and Practice of Art.
  • A portfolio of recent work and a clear description of the proposed field of study.
  • In exceptional circumstances, the attainment of a level of academic or professional competence which in the opinion of Senate, on the recommendation of the Board of the Faculty of Humanities, is adequate for the purpose of undertaking both the creative and theoretical aspects of the course, may qualify a candidate for admission.
  (c) The deadline for receipt of these application materials is 31 October each year. Late applications may be considered at the discretion of the Director of the School.
  
  Acceptance is on the recommendation of the Head of Department and is based on the assessment of the research proposal and portfolio of creative work and the availability of a suitable supervisor and studio space.

• Lecture times

  A candidate must be registered for the degree for at least two years.

• Assessment

  (a) Candidates must submit their body of creative work for examination in the format of an exhibition (or an approved equivalent) under the auspices of the School.
  (b) Work submitted for examination must be documented.
  (c) A candidate must submit three copies of the documentation for examination.
  (d) The degree may be awarded with distinction where the submission achieves a mark of 75% or more.

FIN5008W

Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Art

Fine Art

• Course description

  The Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Art offers a coherent, graduate study path for artists and teachers who have Fine Art degrees and wish to upgrade their academic status, or those who have not yet acquired degree status, but who hold recognised diplomas in aspects of the visual arts.

  This programme develops practical skills and conceptual thinking in fine art practice. Students work within a studio of senior students and develop a practical proposal of choice. This culminates in a professional exhibition at the end of the year of study that demonstrates a sound understanding of contemporary practice.

  The submission is accompanied by a visual catalogue with an introductory essay. A weekly reading group introduces core readings and critical issues.

  Applicants must submit the following:

  (a) A portfolio of recent work on CD in PDF format not exceeding 10MB file size;

  (c) A statement of motivation that outlines a research project for the year (500 -1000 words).

  a) Portfolio:

  The portfolio must represent a recent body of work or a previous body of work that gives the higher degrees committee an indication of the direction you wish to pursue while registered. This work, including your name, title of each work and medium used, must be submitted in PDF format on a CD not exceeding 10MB file size. Please check that your CD is working and is formatted to be read on all computers (MAC and PC)

• Course code

  FIN5008W

• Course outline

  The diploma programme provides a framework for a one-year course of practical creative study, technical study or materials research in a chosen discipline, process or medium. The Michaelis School of Fine Art will appoint a supervisor for each candidate enrolled in the programme.

  Assessment:

  • (a)  Students enrolled in the programme will offer for examination an exhibition of creative work at the end of the academic year in which they wish to graduate. This creative work must have been completed during the period of registration and must not have been exhibited prior to examination. In the event that the work is exhibited publicly after the successful completion of the diploma, acknowledgement must be made to the School and the University.
  • (b)  See also: Michaelis School of Fine Art, “Guidelines for the documentation of practical work”.
  • (c)  The Postgraduate Diploma in Art may be awarded with Distinction, or at the level of a Pass.
    No re-submission is possible in the event of a Fail.

• Entrance requirements

  (a) Faculty requirements are set out under Rule FG3.
  (b) Programme requirements:
  Admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Art is subject to the submission and acceptance of a portfolio of recent creative work and the availability of appropriate teaching staff and studio space. Acceptance is on the recommendation of the Head of Department.
  (c) The deadline for receipt of these application materials is 31 October each year. Late applications may be considered at the discretion of the School.

FIN4055S

Reading Course in Art Historical Studies

History of Art

• Course description

  24 at NQF level 8

• Course code

  FIN4055S

• Course convenor(s)

  Associate Professor B Martinez-Ruiz

• Course outline

  This course will explore advanced topics in contemporary historiography through an examination of theories and literature.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for an Honours or Master’s programme.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all written work.

• Assessment

  Formal examination (40%).

FIN4054F

Critical Issues in Contemporary Art

History of Art

• Course description

  24 at NQF level 8

• Course code

  FIN4054F

• Course convenor(s)

  Dr N Makhubu

• Course outline

  This course brings together a variety of theoretical texts that may assist in understanding the diverse production and complex character of the contemporary art world. Central to this inquiry stands the notion of identity, a concept that seems to inform much of contemporary art. We will trace shifting conceptions of this notion over the last three decades, from the initial moments of identity politics, to the articulation of identity as performative, to current ventures into a post-identitarian world.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for an Honours or Master’s programme.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all written work.

• Assessment

  Examined by coursework 100%

FIN4053S

Studies in the Historiography of Art

History of Art

• Course description

  24 at NQF level 8

• Course code

  FIN4053S

• Course convenor(s)

  A Tietze

• Course outline

  Material artefacts are mute, but our understanding of them is communicated in words. With a focus on a topical issue or a genre of art, this course examines the relationship between artefacts and the texts that attempt to explain them. How do art-historical texts and related forms of writing offer insight into the works they discuss? Can they, contrary to intentions, sometimes form a barrier between viewer and work? And what is their role in gathering works into schools, movements and genres? This course examines aspects of the multi-faceted role of words as explicators of visual artefacts.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for an Honours programme.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all written work.

• Assessment

  Examined by combination of coursework (60%) and formal examination (40%).

FIN4052F

The Politics and Ethics of Collecting

History of Art

• Course description

  24 at NQF level 8

• Course code

  FIN4052F

• Course convenor(s)

  A Tietze

• Course outline

  This course studies art-collecting practices in the West from the 18th century to the present. Inter alia it considers the 18th century arguments for the establishment of private art collections, the 19^th century growth of public museums, the 20th century development of modern art museums, and recent post-modern developments in exhibitionary practice. Throughout the course these issues are situated in socio-political context.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for an Honours or Master’s programme.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all written work.

• Assessment

  Examined by combination of coursework (60%) and formal examination (40%).

FIN4051S

Art Criticism

History of Art

• Course description

  24 at NQF Level 8

• Course code

  FIN4051S

• Course convenor(s)

  Associate Professor B Martinez-Ruiz

• Course outline

  Issues current in contemporary South African Art; developing the capacity for writing about them. Readings in the history of art criticism, with special reference to the practice of art criticism in Africa; workshops with leading South African art critics; and practical review sessions at art exhibitions in the Cape Town area.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for an Honours or Master’s programme.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all written work.

• Assessment

  Examined by coursework (100%).

FIN4050W

Research Essay/Project

History of Art

• Course description

  30 at NQF level 8

• Course code

  FIN4050W

• Course convenor(s)

  A Tietze (Art Historical Studies specialization) and Professor P Skotnes (Curatorship specialization)

• Course outline

  An appropriate research paper of approximately 15,000 words in length, or project with catalogue, chosen in consultation with the convener of the Art Historical Studies Honours programme OR the Curatorship Honours programme. Draft chapters of the research essay must be submitted by stipulated dates and the completed project must be submitted by no later than 30 October (Curatorship – 28 October).

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance for an Honours programme.

• Dp requirements

  Attendance at all seminars and completion of all written work.

• Assessment

  Art Historical Studies - 15000 word essay, Curatorship – 15000 word essay or project with 7500 catalogue essay.

FIN4061S

local issues in curatorship

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 8.
  Elective course.

• Course code

  FIN4061S

• Course convenor(s)

  Pippa Skotnes and Andrew Lamprecht

• Course outline

  In this course, students will focus on developing their engagement with local and contemporary issues around curatorship. Students will refer to existing collections at the University of Cape Town and Iziko, in the Michaelis Collection, as well as to current events and developments in a local context. With this focus on local issues, students will be required to conceptualise the specific relationship between the museum and its public in a way that is sensitive to the South African and African context. Field trips will be organised with on-site discussions about current exhibitions and displays.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme.

• Lecture times

  1 double seminar per week x 10 (second semester)

FIN4060S

virtual display

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 8.
  Elective course.

• Course code

  FIN4060S

• Course convenor(s)

  Pippa Skotnes and Fabian Saptouw

• Course outline

  In this course, students will be required to curate (or recurate) a space in the Iziko institution in the virtual domain. They will need to take into account not only the context of the space but also the practical needs of the display and the objects/art works to be displayed, as well as various possible approaches to interpretation. This course will also include conservation and model making workshops and will introduce students to both ethical and practical issues of conservation. Students will be supported by a digital and web specialist, who will facilitate their online exhibition.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme.

• Lecture times

  1 double seminar per week x 10 (second semester)

FIN4059F

working with collections

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 8.
  Elective course.

• Course code

  FIN4059F

• Course convenor(s)

  Patricia Davison and Pippa Skotnes

• Course outline

  This course will introduce students to museum collections as resources for research, interpretation and visual communication. Iziko’s art and social history collections will be used as a basis for elucidating multiple approaches to the understanding and interpretation of collections. The outcomes of this course will include: ability to apply research methodology in interpreting museum objects, tracing provenance and significance of collections; understanding of the relationship between the tangible and intangible aspects of collections, and hands-on experience of working with museum collections.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme.

• Lecture times

  1 double seminar per week x 10 (first semester)

FIN4058F

practical communication as part of exhibition practice

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 8.
  Elective course.

   

• Course code

  FIN4058F

• Course convenor(s)

  Hayden Proud and Fabian Saptouw

• Course outline

  With its multi-lingual communities, South African art museums face enormous challenges in communicating with the public and attracting new audiences. This course will look at ideas and issues raised by the need to communicate effectively with visitors to an art museum in the form of essays, catalogues, brochures and a variety of exhibition texts. Students will be asked critically to examine a variety of precedents and will be set specific writing projects as a part of this course. Students will also be involved in a curatorial project undertaken during the semester.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme.

• Lecture times

  1 double seminar per week x 10 (first semester)

FIN4057F

curating colonial connections

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 8.
  Elective course.

• Course code

  FIN4057F

• Course convenor(s)

  Carinne Zaayman

• Course outline

  In this course, students will read and think about the various colonial collections to which the Cape is connected, particularly Dutch and English collections. This includes the TANAP collections of the VOC, housed at The Hague, Jakarta and Cape Town. Contemporary perspectives on the Enlightenment, scientific thought and exploration, as well as Imperialism will inform the approach to these collections. Thinking around the postcolonial connections between the Cape and various colonies, such as Australia, New Zealand, Namibia, Madagascar and India will be developed. Students will be encouraged to engage with specific collections within either the University or Iziko, and use these as part of their assignments.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme

• Lecture times

  1 double seminar per week x 10 (first semester)

FIN4056F

critical thinking in curatorship

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 24 at level 8.
  Compulsory course.

• Course code

  FIN4056F

• Course convenor(s)

  Pippa Skotnes and Fabian Saptouw

• Course outline

  The first part of this course will introduce students to the history and practice of curatorship, and interrogate the meaning of the term curatorship in different spaces and contexts with a focus on art collections and installations. Students will be exposed to curatorial practices and to the practicalities of mounting exhibitions and displays. Topics will include a history of art galleries and museums, with a focus on the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as the role of the catalogue in translating the visual content of the displays. The course will also examine the responsibilities of the curator to the public with a strong focus on South African issues and communities. In the second part of this course, students will deepen their critical understanding of the various intellectual frameworks that inform curatorship practices. Special attention will be given to the history of 20th and 21st century artists who have engaged with museums, as well as critical texts on these works. Creative and imaginative approaches to the museum and strategies of display will be explored and specific case studies, both local and foreign, will be examined. This course will include a workshop.

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme.

• Lecture times

  1 double seminar per week x 10 (first semester)

FIN4050W

curatorship research essay/project

Curatorship

• Course description

  HEQF credits: 30 at level 8.
  Compulsory whole-year course.

• Course code

  FIN4050W

• Entrance requirements

  Acceptance into the Honours in Curatorship programme.