080043 EX Kunst in Wien: Contemporary Art in Vienna (2017W)

Course Description:
This course is a conceptually driven introduction to the practices, histories, discourses, theories, and institutions of contemporary art in Vienna. Specifically, it focuses on the pivotal role played by the artist’s studio as a site of production, consumption, and reception. We will examine various models of the studio and embed it historically in relation to foundational art historical ‘myths’ and the contemporary realities of labor.

Some questions guiding our course: What role does an artist’s studio play in the formation of their artistic identity, the work that they produce, and the reception of that work beyond the studio’s limits? What is the relationship between the site that has traditionally been designated for the production of art objects and those spaces dedicated to exhibition or display? What is the role played by the artist’s studio in mediating the relationship between their artistic practice, its value, and broader market forces? In this regard, how does the site of the studio shape relationships with gallerists, collectors, curators, critics, academics and other art world operatives? What are some of the different models of ‘studio work’ that are prevalent in the field and how does the studio relate to various forms of labor? What role do artist studios play in urban development and gentrification?

Building on the premise that a constellation of historically contingent processes, perspectives, and practices function together to give rise to what we call “contemporary art,” this course: 1) familiarizes students with various artistic practices and models of the studio in Vienna; 2) presents students with the opportunity to discuss issues relevant to the Vienna art scene with individuals active in the field; 3) Situates the Vienna art scene in the broader global context; 4) critically interrogates the local cultural landscape within available theories.

Course Aims:
1) Familiarize students with the diverse studio structures and artists in Vienna.
2) Present students with the opportunity to discuss issues relevant to the Vienna art scene with individuals active in the field.
3) Situate the Vienna art scene in the broader global context.
4) Critically interrogate the local cultural landscape and position it within current theories.
5) Develop critical and analytical thinking, writing, reading, interviewing, and oral skills using the ‘case study’ of Contemporary Art in Vienna.

Course Methods: Students learn through site-visits, team-work, self-directed research, critical conversations, discussions, writing, and oral presentations.

Course Language: The course is taught in English.