Topic outline

  • Contemporary Art and Its Social Context


    Maurizio Nannucci, All Art Has Been Contemporary, 1999/2000, neon lights.


    All art has been contemporary – OR HAS IT?

    In this course, we investigate contemporary art in theory and in its concrete manifestations, and ask what separates it from e.g. modern art. After the course, you will be able to recognize specificities of contemporary art and to articulate your views about it. We wll look at how contemporary art comes about: what are the structures for producing and exhibiting art today. You will be able to recognize and make statements about the roles and relationships between various actors in contemporary artworld. Together with your classmates, you will also put your skills into practice through a study project.


    Thursday 13–17 (10 x 4h)

    20.9. Introduction; Contemporary art as a paradigm

    27.9. Site-, time- & socially specific art

    4.10. Art in public space

    11.10. Artworld and Art as a collective process

    18.10. Art institutions: visit to Publics

    [25.10. no class]

    1.11. Site visits: Amos Rex & Kiasma

    8.11. 'Global' art

    15.11. Participation and democracy in art

    22.11. The use(s) of art

    29.11. Project presentations at Publics

    NB. changes possible