VISU3111: Special Subject: Performance and Topography (20 credits)

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• VISU3xxx Special Subject: Performance and Topography (40 credits)

• To explore interconnectedness amongst humans, topography (surface features of place / object) and environment
• To rethink how individual movements, interactions and confluences reconfigure an understanding of human-land or human-nature relationship, as well as the consciousness of the space.
• To explore how network of objects and people shape a broader environment beyond cultural, social and geographical boundaries
• To approach images, performances and representations with interdisciplinary skills
• To critically engage with the formation and development of cultural theories.

• The first part of the module will explore relevant key terms and concepts, which may include: performance and performativity, topography, performance and ethnography, performing race, and performance in everyday life.
• The module will also explore several case studies, which may include: the migration of embodied practices, such as practices of Ballet Russes; performances at the intersection of action painting/Happening/event in a global context; the use of scores in music and performance; and the ideas and practices of improvisation.
• Further topics covered may include: time, space, city; the street and neighbourhood; and land and mapping.
• Multimedia examples will include diaries / memoirs, scores, images, performances (including everyday life such as walking) and maps
• The syllabus will develop in line with the students interests, who will take responsibility for the course content as the module progresses toward their independent research projects

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• By the end of this module, students are expected to possess:
• Critical understanding of texts, images and performances
• An understanding of network of objects, people and communities in a global circulation of ideas and practices
• Knowledge and critical awareness regarding relevant cultural debates

Subject-specific Skills:

• By the end of this module, students are expected to:
• Carry out critical analysis of a variety of texts, performances and images with an ability to link them together
• Articulate knowledge and understanding of concepts and theories relating to visual and performance studies
• Have command of a broad range of vocabulary and an appropriate critical terminology
• Undertake independent research projects while proactively thinking about ways to bridge cultural and social differences

Key Skills:

• By the end of this module, students will develop:
• Critical and analytical thinking
• Academic writing and oral presentation
• Personal organisation and time management
• Independent learning and research

• This module will run in Term 1 if offered concurrently with the 40-credit version of the module, or in either Term 1 or Term 2 if the 40-credit version is not being offered in a given year.
• Weekly seminars (2 hours) will facilitate sustained discussion of the key topics, developing students grasp of theoretical material as well as practising visual and performance analysis on a weekly basis. Seminar will be interactive; students will develop their communication skills and skills in critical reasoning.
• Small-group tutorials (1 x 1 hour) will allow students to explore and develop their research questions and plans, responding to questions from the group and giving and receiving peer feedback.
• The assessment will allow students to develop their skills in academic writing, as well as demonstrating other skills and knowledge that the module seeks to develop.

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