Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - CA 412W D100

Advanced Seminar in Art and Culture Studies (4)

The Artist as Witness

Class Number: 9840

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    Eight upper division units; and one of CA (or FPA) 210W (or 210), 335, 337, or 357W.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Provides an in-depth investigation of a selected theoretical, historical or thematic topic in art and culture studies. This course requires independent research leading to a substantial paper, as well as directed reading preparation for seminars. Topics will vary from term to term. The course may be repeated when different topics are offered. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will focus on issues of conflict, trauma and cultural memory as they are called forth in representation. We will explore a range of media in which traumatic events and experiences are visualized, including documentary film, visual art, photojournalism, and memorial sites. While we can’t possibly address all the specifics of these events, we will discuss the parameters, functions, and inter-relations among memory, history, trauma, and the ethics of representation as they play themselves out in visual art and culture. Each week, these issues will be pursued in relation to the work of one or two contemporary artists. Some questions we will tackle include: What are the limits that individual and collective suffering imposes on practices of representation? Where and how do we—as artists, scholars, and/or audiences—draw a line between witness and spectator? What tactics can and do artists employ in order to convey pain? When and why does trauma become a matter of public exposure?

Grading

  • Attendance and participation 22%
  • Reading responses (weekly) 21%
  • Research Essay proposal 5%
  • Research essay outline 10%
  • Research presentation 12%
  • Research Essay 30%

NOTES:

his is class prepared for in-depth discussions of the readings, and success in the course will depend on a commitment to active and engaged participation.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

The required readings will be assembled in a coursepack available on the course website.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Frances Guerin and Roger Hallas, eds, The Image and the Witness: Trauma, Memory and Visual Culture (London and New York: Wallflower Press, 2007), on reserve at Belzberg Library.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS