Photomedia (Dissertation and minor studio project)
HONOURS SUBJECT AREA
Photomedia focuses on the full range of visual art practices that make up contemporary photomedia. You will be equipped with creative skills relevant to all aspects of this dynamic and expanding area with particular emphasis on contemporary visual arts practice.
Photomedia emphasises conceptual and practical investigations through projects designed to foster individual interpretations and aesthetic development and promote the acquisition of technical skills and enhance your engagement with research. The studio includes instruction in digital photomedia and chemical photography. Study options cover a cross-section of photomedia investigations: photomedia-installation including the still and moving image; documentary photography; experimental and contemporary practice using analogue and digital technologies. Each study option includes its own specialised theoretical concerns and techniques.
The honours year
The Honours year at Sydney College of the Arts provides students with the opportunity to establish a research practice through the development of a visual art project, over two semesters’ full-time study. Students work with an allocated supervisor for the general supervision of both their studio and written work.
Students produce a body of artwork for exhibition and examination, and a research paper or dissertation based on their research proposal. There are two categories of candidature:
(1) Honours by Studio Project and Research Paper (5-7000 words)
(2) Honours by Dissertation (15,000 words) and Minor Studio project.
Workload and assessment
In Honours by Dissertation the emphasis is placed on your writing and research. Your proposition and argument are the focus of your study. The Studio Project should be informed by your investigations and play a supportive role only.
While it is not compulsory for candidates of Honours by Dissertation to attend the Studio Seminar/Research Paper A unit of study, it is recommended. The seminar program offers each student an opportunity show work in progress and to discuss their research with staff and students in their group. Participation can contribute to the development of both your Dissertation and the Minor Studio Project.
The 15,000-word Dissertation provides the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of theoretical and critical issues that affect art making. Writing a Dissertation at this level involves a commitment to serious scholarship, focused research, disciplined editing, rigorous analysis and frequent supervision.
Honours students also undertake the Honours Theories of Art Practice unit of study.