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This practical module explores two narrative forms, the still photographic narrative image and video as used in an art context.

This module explores firstly the narrative potential that is inherent in a single photographic image. As a medium that freezes time it suggests a distillation of a larger, continuous event and simultaneously offers itself to a multitude of narrative readings. Taking the lead of artists such as Jeff Wall and Cindy Sherman, this narrative quality is further examined as being informed by the codes and conventions of art history and popular culture. Commensurate with the emphasis on a single image, this module will further develop skills in the equipment and processes of large format photography. Seminars will discuss historical and contemporary artists whose work reflect a concern with narrative, with specific concern given to models of generating work such as art-historical transcription. The module then goes on to explore video as used by artists. Key artists looked at will include, for example, Mark Wallinger, Gillian Wearing , Sam Taylor Wood, Steve McQueen, and their use of the medium will inform the briefs and student work. Use of sound, installation, editing etc will be considered. The emphasis will be on ideas and effective and economic use of the medium rather than high level technical training. The briefs are to be individually negotiated with the module tutor in tutorials, reflecting the issues addressed in the seminars.

i.  Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of the module students should be able to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of:
a) methodologies employed in producing single images which communicate narratives
b) the influences of historic and contemporary art forms, including painting and film, on the creation and reading of contemporary photographic narratives and transcriptions
c) contemporary use of video in a fine art context

ii. Skills
a)  Demonstrate an advanced competency in the considered use of the appropriate photographic and video materials, technologies, techniques and materials.
b)  Present their work in a suitable, professional and considered way.

Staff / student contact: 20% (lectures, seminars, tutorials, seminars etc.)
Student directed learning: 80% (reading, research, essays)

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.