Visual Studies graduate courses

VS 573 - Performative Action

This is a graduate and advanced undergraduate course on the theories and practice of performance in contemporary art. Inherently interdisciplinary, performative practice straddles body art, installation, public art, theatre, dance, music, writing. As deliberate action, situation, event, non-event, or relational practice, it is an art form that comes closest to blurring the line between art and life. Its currency lies in its capacity to be utilized in the most extreme, urgent, and quotidian of situations. This course explores the history and social contexts of embodiment, audience interactions, situated interventions and art/life encounters. Integral to the curriculum are a visiting artist lecture/workshop and/or class trip to attend a related event. Lab fee.