ARC 350R/386M
modernity: modernization: Modernism
examining the modern legacy in contemporary art and architecture

Instructor: John Szot
Lecture: W 6-9pm

Description:

In the arts, the term 'modern' developed beyond an expression of immediacy as their Modernist veins questioned and transgressed established conventions to produce works of timeless pertinence. Through converging conceptual principles, these discourses point to a modern architecture whose definition resides beyond the aesthetic level and transcends notions of 'functionality' and Zeitgeist. This class will be putting modernity and modern thinking 'on the couch' through critically examining seminal essays that develop the concept of modernity in the arts in order to better understand the relevance of modern design today.

Format:

This seminar focuses on developing a portrait of modernity by examining various ideologies in essay form as a basis for evaluating the continued relevance of modern design in a contemporary context. The students will present research on modern artists from various fields in class followed by open discussion of required reading. There will also be a short film series featuring seminal works of modern cinema. Topics for research will be approved by the instructor and tutored on an individual basis during office hours.

Objective:

The class is primarily about developing one's critical reading and thinking skills as the foundation for a disciplined discourse within their own work. The concept of modernity will provide the terms for the discussion. Through exposure to a diverse body of work and criticism, students are expected to postulate a working definition of modern architecture that addresses the issues facing a contemporary practice.

Evaluation:

Grades will be based on participation in class discussion (one-third); presentation of research (one-third); and a final paper/project analyzing a building built after 1980 (one-third).

Materials:

The reader for the class will be available at the Student Union Copy Center for around $35. It contains all the required reading for in-class discussion; purchase is mandatory for those enrolled in the class.

Attendance:

Punctual and regular attendance is essential. Students with three unexcused absences during the term, or two consecutive unexcused absences, may be dropped from the course without further notice. Outside employment is not an excuse for incomplete work or absence from class. Please note the scheduled class days are class days, and holidays are holidays. Assignments and projects will account for every class day.

Students with Disabilities:

The University of Texas at Austin provides upon request appropriate academic accommodations for qualified students with disabilities. For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Students at 471-6259, 471-4641 TTY.

Religious Holidays:

It is the policy of the University of Texas at Austin that the student must notify each instructor at least fourteen days prior to the classes scheduled on dates he or she will be absent to observe a religious holy day. For religious holidays that fall within the first two weeks of the semester, the notice should be given on the first day of the semester.