Envisioning Identity: Design & National Experience - SDES2173
Description
The production and consumption of craft and design objects have contributed to – and reflected - the complex process by which nations and individuals experience modernity and represent cultural identity. This online course focuses on material culture – items which can be seen and felt – by examining the cultural, political and socio-economic factors which underpin the development and promotion of craft and design as identity and industry. Case studies will include China, Finland and Japan for comparative analysis of the contrasting transitions to modernity to emphasise key factors. Students will explore ways of discerning such factors by analysing craft and design objects from museum collections and contemporary practice to gain further understanding of the theories which influence national experience. Individual and collaborative online activities will enable students to develop and demonstrate knowledge of the key issues which shaped the transformation of pre-industrial objects into icons of modern national identity. NOTE: Students will receive course website location and log in instructions via their UNSW email account prior to the commencement of the course.