This module examines contemporary art through the lens of masculinities. It considers how an understanding of changing conceptions of masculinity on a global scale in the contemporary period can help us understand the processes, materials, reception, and preoccupations of contemporary art. This module explores key texts in gender theory and queer theory, while remaining attentive to socially and spatially specific expressions of masculinity. It moves through a number of themes addressed in contemporary art that intersect with masculinity, including: body, war, blackness, desire, migration, family, plague, memory, and female masculinity.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of contemporary artists and artworks that engage with issues around masculinity
Describe relationships between relevant artworks and the cultural and social environments of the contemporary period
Identify and analyse relevant artworks produced during the contemporary period
Comment on theoretical matters relating to gender and sexuality embodied in primary and secondary sources relating to the contemporary period