ART 426W - Writing about Contemporary Visual Studies

Units: 3 ; Breadth Area: GE-UD-3; UWR
Close analysis of contemporary art and visual culture after 1990 and supporting texts and focus on a single thematic approach. Includes close reading, critical thinking, evidence-based writing, and intensive research. Must earn C- (CR) or better for UWR credit.

Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-UD-3 - Upper Division Arts or Humanities, University Writing Requirement
Prerequisites: Completion of GE Areas 1A, 1B, 1C and GE-2 with grade C- (CR) or better (GE Areas A1, A2, A3 and B4 for students on the 2024-25 or earlier catalogs).
Strongly Recommended Preparation: Upper division status (greater than 60 earned semester units) and completion of lower division Area 3 requirements (lower division Area C requirements for students on the 2024-25 or earlier catalogs).
Repeatability: May be repeated once for credit for a maximum of 6 units.
Possible Instructional Methods: On-ground or Hybrid.
Grading: A-F grading only.
Course Typically Offered: Spring ONLY

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of key research methodologies for writing about contemporary visual studies through critical and theoretical approaches.
Analyze contemporary visual culture objects and events using strategies of close observation and appropriate vocabulary.
Evaluate primary and secondary sources and apply critical and creative thinking to independent research using a multi-draft process.
Apply comprehension of theories of contemporary visual culture to writing about contemporary visual studies.
Collaborate with peers to address a specific issue of art or visual culture since the 1990s.

GE-UD-3. Upper-division Arts or Humanities Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of and ability to apply principles, methodologies, values systems, and thought processes employed in the arts and humanities.
Analyze cultural production as an expression of, or reflection upon, what it means to be human.
Demonstrate how the perspectives of the arts or humanities are used by informed, engaged, and reflective citizens to benefit local and global communities.