Sculpture as Expression I (5 cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

Schedule to be confirmed! The joint meetings are usually held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

What are the methods of expression in sculpture? Answer: all the possible methods! The expanded field of sculpture (Krauss) has fused a huge range of different modes of expression, from video art to performance. For example, spatiality, corporeality and materiality, or their opposites, are concepts that are essential to contemporary art and shape the content of the work. The sculpture, like any other art object, is situated in the same physical reality as its creator and its audience. In addition to the physical and material dimension of the work, the 'direction of writing and reading' chosen by the artist also influences its making. What is the material possibility that the artist wants to emphasise in his work?

During the course, students will choose a concept of contemporary sculpture that interests them and produce a work or a set of works inspired by it. At the same time, they will explore in depth the theory of their chosen concept and present their findings to the group in a 'conceptual seminar'.

Objective

The students will be able to:
• use contemporary methods and modes of expression in their own work
• consider their expression from the aesthetic and ethical perspective
• critically analyse and develop their own three-dimensional expression
• actively follow and analyse regional, national and international trends and phenomena in sculpture

Content

The students will focus on the content and modes of expression in contemporary sculpture. What can a three-dimensional object say about today’s society, and how? Which materials are environmentally sustainable? The studies introduce topical aspects of contemporary sculpture, such as spatial, multisensory and cross-disciplinary modes of expression as well as the relationship between a work and the audience.
The studies are completed according to the plan at workshops. During this course, the students will design and execute a three-dimensional work of art or collection of works. In addition, the students will create a visual presentation about a contemporary sculptor of their choice as instructed by the teacher and based on source materials. The course may also include visits to exhibitions and studios, artist lectures and excursions.

Materials

Krauss, Rosalind. Kuvanveiston laajentunut kenttä.
Seppä, Anita. Kuvien tulkinta. 2012. Gaudeamus.

Student workload

The learning methods emphasise task-based learning, project-based learning and face-to-face teaching. At the beginning of the course, the student defines, together with the supervising teacher, a goal for his/her work, which is approached through personal work, group and individual meetings and self-reflection.