Contemporary Fine Art MA

On this module you will be encouraged to explore how different research methods underpin all kinds of creative practices. The module introduces you to current research themes in art and design. In the past we have explored topics such as: developing concepts through thinking and making, using archives in creative practice, working with objects of material culture, analysing digital transformations, practising psychogeography in the urban environment, tackling the anthropocene and environmental issues of the twenty-first century. As thinkers and practitioners you will work to develop an understanding of the different research approaches you might design and use to enhance and transform your ideas. You will be introduced to a range of practice-led research methods which may include: creative and design thinking, user-centered methods, practice-led approaches, cultural analysis, historical/archival research and market-driven data capture and analysis. The module helps to equip you with a tool kit of research skills to guide you in the development of a project proposal or working brief for your Master's study. The module is made up of lectures, guided seminars and small group tutorials which will support you in building a solid foundation to lead you through your studies.

This module aims to introduce you to key features of innovation and entrepreneurship within the context of the cultural and creative industries. Depending on your future aspirations we will help you to build your knowledge and understanding of different approaches to creative innovation (social, ethical and sustainable aspects), provide guidance on business start-ups, and assist you in your professional skills development (commercial awareness, self-management, problem-solving, team working, communication strategies), including searching for marketing, promotion, consultancy and funding opportunities specific to your subject. The module involves lectures, seminars and practical projects where you will experiment with the tools and techniques of creative innovation. There will be opportunities for group projects and cross-disciplinary working on this module.

This module enables you to explore a range of advanced creative concepts and practices across Art and Design working alongside other students in a mixed-discipline cohort encompassing Art and Communication, 3D Design and Fashion and Textiles. You will identify starting points for your studio practice through supported and scheduled access and interaction with a range of specialist workshop facilities and digital making processes which in turn inform the potential of material investigation as a core part of your refocused enquiry-led practice. The module comprises three discrete but interlinked phases of development: Conceptual Direction, Creative Contexts, Critical Processes.

Working alongside other students within Art and Communication, this practice-based studio module advances the professional orientation of your creative practice. Specialising in your chosen area of practice, you will be supported to produce a body of practical work supported by specialist and inter-disciplinary workshops that will explore the hybrid and expanded nature of your discipline that arises out of contemporary culture. You will be encouraged to push the direction and development of your specific project through processes of risk taking, problematisation and creative thinking, related to your professional context. In doing so you will develop a deeper understanding of professional directions, audience, context and creative platforms.

Working with a robust proposal you will rigorously test materials, techniques, approaches, and technologies of pre and post production to realise a unique creative practice. The work you make will demonstrate a focused interrogation of contemporary practice informed by technological, social, cultural, ecological, theoretical and professional contexts. You will test your knowledge and understanding of appropriate exhibition formats at key stages and present the culmination of your creative innovations in a showcase portfolio. Your individual project may evidence exemplary approaches to contemporary fine art in drawing, painting, electronics, performance, sculpture, spatial practices, sound art, photography, film and video, curation, writing, interactive media and/or other hybrid and transdisciplinary forms.