Macquarie University

Art and Culture - ANTH204

This unit introduces students to anthropological and ethnographic approaches to art objects, art worlds, and expressive practices. We examine concepts of symbol, form, meaning, style, virtuosity, creativity and expression, and their applications and limitations in the interpretation and experience of non-Western art. By studying contemporary art objects and techniques in their ethnographic contexts, we explore how sensory and aesthetic experiences are valued in different religions, cultural and artistic traditions; how the body, senses, and emotions are trained and engaged in the production and consumption of religio-aesthetic forms; how aesthetic tastes are developed within particular relationships of power; and also how art and aesthetic experiences are produced and circulated across-cultural categories. We also examine the relationship between art and politics of representation: how ideas about the 'primitive' and the 'other' have captured the Western imagination and found expression in artistic and cultural forms; how galleries, museums, and ethnographic films 'show' other cultures; how Indigenous and migrant artists present and perform cultural identity; and how complex intercultural relationships are formed between Indigenous art producers and non-Indigenous consumers through international 'tribal' and Aboriginal art markets.

Timetable Information

For unit timetable information and session dates for external offerings please visit the Timetables@Macquarie Website.