Module Information

This module examines the practice, patronage, study and display of art in Wales for the 18th century to the present. It deals with visual culture of and in Wales as well as debates surrounding tradition and the perceived Welshness of Welsh art. It focuses on emergent artistic cultures in light of the historical, political, social and religious history of Wales with reference to the revivals of national consciousness. Artists working in Wales and beyond, are identified as exemplars of either a unique contribution to, or general trends in art in Wales. Artworks, historical literature and a growing body of contemporary research are brought together to present a general overview as well as specialised insights. The module encourages students to engage in primary research as well as artefact and textual analysis using the collections of the School of Art Museum and National Library of Wales.

Through lectures and seminars, students will engage with: aspects of ​culture and society within Wales, notions of cultural identity; Wales' art and its industries; landscape, topography and environment, together with international modernism and contemporary practices.