Sculpture, Performance and Installation (SPI) (Dissertation and minor studio project)
HONOURS SUBJECT AREA
Sculpture, Performance and Installation (SPI) addresses the language of three-dimensional space not only through the exploration of materials, objects and processes, but also through the relationship between the body and its spatial surrounds.
Sculpture, Performance and Installation (SPI) encourages a range of approaches in the making of art. This includes site-specific, institutional critique, and ephemeral work. Technical processes central to the history of sculpture such as casting, carving, welding, and assemblage are also supported. The heritage of conceptual art is a fundamental consideration of the studio. You are encouraged to include video in your spatial explorations, either as a medium in its own right, or as a tool for documenting sculpture, installation and performance work.
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.