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Visual Culture and Performance Studies Major

Bachelor of Arts

This program leads to a bachelor of arts (BA) degree.

Within the fine and performing arts, there are lively debates about the meaning and significance of individual artworks, as well as their relationships to audiences and to other forms of culture. The program investigates art and culture with attention to the historically changing forms of class, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality and aesthetics. It provides students with the knowledge, research and communication skills needed to participate effectively in contemporary debates about art and culture. The core program includes two introductory studio courses from a multidisciplinary range of choices; these provide the experience of the creative process in dance, music, theatre, video or visual art. The program is interdisciplinary, but also provides a knowledge of and sensitivity to the distinctive qualities of specific art forms. Course selection beyond the program’s core is flexible and students are encouraged to shape their studies in the school, or in the University at large.

¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Requirements

Program and course admission is contingent upon University admission. Contact Student Services for admission procedures, requirements and deadlines. Entry to all programs and to many courses is by audition, interview or application. Contact the school’s office for information on procedures and deadlines.

Although the University operates on a trimester system, most FPA courses are planned in a two term (fall and spring) sequence. Consequently, students enter in the fall term (September) and are advised to contact the school in the preceding January for program entry and requirements information.

Transfer Credit and Advanced Standing

Unassigned or general elective (type 2 and 3, respectively) transfer credit awarded for courses completed at other recognized post-secondary institutions will not automatically entitle students to advanced standing in the school’s programs. Advanced standing is generally given on an individual basis as a result of an audition or interview.

About the School’s Course Offerings

Students are encouraged to take advantage of interdisciplinary offerings within the school. As many programs depend on a continuing sequence of courses completed in order, students should plan carefully to gain the maximum benefit and efficiency from their study. Note that not all courses are offered every term and several are offered on a rotational basis, i.e. every third or fourth term. An advisor is available to help plan study programs.

Students are reminded that the school is an interdisciplinary fine and performing arts department, and are strongly advised to acquaint themselves with the many disciplinary courses that are available.

Special Topics Courses

The subject matter (and prerequisites) of special or selected topics courses vary by term.

Prior Approval Prerequisite

Where a prerequisite is, or includes, ‘prior approval,’ approval must be obtained before enrolling in the course. Contact the school for further information.

Program Requirements

Students complete 120 units, as specified below.

Lower Division Requirements

Students complete a total of 24 units including all of:

FPA 167 - Visual Art and Culture I (3)

An introduction to the visual arts of the nineteenth century. Formal and thematic approaches to the arts will be introduced, with attention to the social, institutional, national, and international contexts of art. Breadth-Humanities. Breadth-Humanities.

FPA 168 - Visual Art and Culture II (3)

A study of the visual arts from the twentieth century to the present, with attention to the artists, artworks, movements, and discourses that re-defined the functions and meanings of art. The debates of modernism, postmodernity, postcolonialism, feminism, and the avant-garde will be systematically explored. Breadth-Humanities. Breadth-Humanities.

FPA 186 - Art and the Moving Image (3)

Introduces innovations in the fine and performing arts to show the range of possibilities open to those who wish to employ or understand the use of moving images in their disciplinary and multidisciplinary art practices. By the completion of the course students should have a good sense not only of previous innovations and traditions, but of the contemporary scene as well.

FPA 210 - Artworks, Theories, Contexts (3)

Introduces theoretical concepts and historical issues that have informed the creation, perception, interpretation, and analysis of selected artworks in formative epochs, such as the Renaissance, Romanticism, Modernism, or Postmodernism. Prerequisite: 24 units including six in the history or theory of the fine or performing arts. Students with credit for FPA 211 Introduction to Contemporary Theory in the Arts may not take this course for further credit.

Plus six studies units from below:

FPA 136 - The History and Aesthetics of Cinema I (3)

This course will examine the early development of cinema from 1890 until about 1945, with particular emphasis on the fundamental principles of film as an art form. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Breadth-Humanities.

FPA 137 - The History and Aesthetics of Cinema II (3)

This course will examine selected developments in cinema from 1945 to the present, with attention to from 1945 to the present, with attention to various styles of various styles of artistic expression in film. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Breadth-Humanities.

FPA 140 - Music after 1900 (3)

An introductory survey of major historical trends and practices of music in the 20th and 21st centuries as revealed by the study of selected music examples. Critical issues fundamental to an understanding of contemporary composition will be examined (e.g. impressionism, twelve-tone music, indeterminacy, the role of technology, improvisation). May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Breadth-Humanities. Breadth-Humanities.

HUM 211 - Art and Literature of the Italian Renaissance (3)

An interdisciplinary introduction to the art and literature of the Italian Renaissance (c. 1300-c. 1500). Studies the major developments in Renaissance Italian painting, sculpture and architecture alongside some of the most influential texts of the period. Prerequisite: 30 units.

FPA 227 - History of Dance: From the 20th Century to the Present (3)

Study of the development of modern dance and the reformation of the ballet from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. Emphasis will be placed on seminal dance artists and the impact their work has had upon the art form in western theatre dance. Students with credit for FPA 328 may not take this course for further credit. Recommended: FPA 127. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences. Equivalent Courses: FPA128 FPA328. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

FPA 228W - Dance Aesthetics (3)

An introduction to aesthetic theory as it applies to dance. Lectures will address, among other things, the nature of aesthetic experience, as well as issues pertaining to critical judgment, communication, taste, and high and low art. Writing. Prerequisite:. Writing.

FPA 235 - Experimental Film and Video (3)

A survey of the key works and ideas that have informed contemporary moving image art practice nationally and internationally. Beginning with antecedents in painting and photography, the course will move forward from the early European avant-garde to the lyrical and structural works of the seventies, the issue-based work of the eighties, and finally the gallery-based practices of the present day. Intended for all students with an interest in the moving image as an art form. Prerequisite: REQ-one of FPA 135, 136, 137, 167 or 168 or 30 units.

FPA 257W - Context of Theatre I (3)

A conceptual approach to a selected body of dramatic work focusing on the detailed structural analysis of dramatic texts, their historical context, their development and production histories. Particular emphasis will be placed upon the evolving relationship between theatre and its audience. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

Plus six studio units from below:

FPA 120 - Introduction to Dance Forms: Contemporary and Popular (3)

A studio course devoted to the development of movement skills through specific styles of dance. The content of the course changes every semester including techniques in Bhangra, Afro-Caribbian, Hip Hop and Contemporary. May repeat for credit. May be of particular interest to students in other departments.

FPA 129 - Movement Fundamentals (3)

This studio/theory course incorporates techniques of body awareness, centering, and structural realignment. The emphasis is on body conditioning and body connectedness. This course will be of interest to dancers, actors, kinesiologists, and athletes. This is one of four courses required for entry into the dance major and extended minor program.

FPA 150 - Introduction to Acting I (3)

An approach to the elements of acting based on improvisation, with some attention to working from established texts. Focus will be placed on the development of the actor's instrument. The work will include the development of individual powers of expression - vocally, physically, intellectually, imaginatively, and emotionally. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Equivalent Courses: FPA151.

FPA 160 - Introductory Studio in Visual Art I (3)

A hands-on studio course modeled on the progressive development of artistic practice from simple mark-making to full scale installation. Through a process of continuous transformation, an original idea is developed in a sequence of methods, materials and scales. Some research is required. A course materials fee is required.

FPA 170 - Introduction to Production Technology (3)

An introduction to the processes, tools and technology used in the production and presentation of the fine and performing arts. Course requirements will include hands-on assignments in the production of theatre, dance, and music events. Students will work directly with equipment and materials, and are expected to be involved in work on productions and exhibitions outside of lecture and lab hours. Laboratory fee required. May be of particular interest to students in other areas and departments.

FPA 184 - Sound (3)

Introduction to acoustics, psychoacoustics, sound synthesis, audio sampling and signal processing, and sound production in general as relating to music, film sound, radio, new media, art installations and live performance. Quantitative.

FPA 243 - Gamelan I (3)

Practical and theoretical study of music for gamelan ensemble, based on, but not limited to, traditional Javanese music. This course is designed as an introduction to the study of the music of non-Western cultures and as a method of developing ensemble musicianship. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Prerequisite: Prior approval.

FPA 285 - Interdisciplinary Studio - Composition/Collaboration (3)

An introduction to the techniques of artistic composition as experienced in a collaborative interdisciplinary studio environment. The emphasis is on the creation, analysis and critique of new compositions created in collaborative groups by students in dance, music, theatre, film/video and visual art. Prerequisite: FPA 111 and one of FPA 122, 130, 145, 150, 160, 170 or permission of the instructor.

Upper Division Requirements

Students are encouraged to plan in advance, as some upper-division courses may not be offered each year. Students who wish to complete upper-division courses must make sure they have the disciplinary prerequisites and should be aware that studio courses may have limited enrollments.

Students complete a total of 28 units from the list below:

CMNS 334 - Cultural Policy (4)

Examination of the modern foundations and current policy processes of federal, provincial and municipal policies for the arts, cultural industries and heritage. Related social policies, such as bilingualism and multiculturalism, and the international context of Canadian cultural policy, will also be addressed. Prerequisite: CMNS 261 and one of CMNS 230 or 240.

ENGL 103W - Introduction to Drama (3)

Examines selected works of literature in order to develop a critical awareness of literary techniques and contexts in the representation of experience. May include the comparative study of works in related literary and artistic genres, and will pay some attention to literature of the Twentieth century. Includes attention to writing skills. Writing/Breadth-Humanities. Equivalent Courses: ENGL103. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

EXPL 320 - Selected Topic II (3)

Provides an in-depth, interdisciplinary investigation of a selected thematic, theoretical, historical, or contemporary topic primarily from Arts perspectives. Topics, research approaches, assignments, and projects will vary from term to term. Prerequisite: 30 units in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, including at least nine units in EXPL and a minimum of six units at the 200 division; or 45 units in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Breadth-Humanities.

FPA 312 - Selected Topics in Art and Culture Studies (3) *

Investigates a selected thematic topic in art and culture studies, for example, postcolonial theory and the arts; perception and embodiment; art activism and resistance; or urban art and culture. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: Will vary according to the topic.

FPA 314 - Readings in the History of Art and Culture (3) *

Investigates a selected historical topic in art and culture. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: Will vary according to the topic.

FPA 317 - Introduction to Performance Studies (4)

Traces the interdisciplinary origins of performance studies and brings its concepts and methods to bear on dance, music, theatre, performance art, and media performance. Prerequisite: Minimum of 45 units, including FPA 111 or another critical or history course within the School for Contemporary Arts; or by prior approval. Students with credit for FPA 311 under this topic may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities.

FPA 319W - Critical Writing in the Arts (3)

Examines aspects of critical writing associated with the fine and performing arts and encourages students to participate as writers in the artistic and cultural debates of their day. Forms examined will include but not be limited to reviews, articles, descriptive synopses for exhibition and festival programs, curatorial essays, project proposals and artists' statements. Prerequisite: 60 units including at least six units in FPA history/theory courses. Students with credit for FPA 319 may not take this course for further credit. Writing.

FPA 335 - Introduction to Film Theory (4)

This course is concerned with the systematic understanding of the general phenomenon called Cinema rather than with the properties or techniques of individual films. Various theoretical positions will be assessed and compared in terms of cinematic practice and its ideological functions. Prerequisite: Prerequisite: six units from among FPA 136, 137, 211, 236, 237. Recommended: FPA 210. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Students who have credit for FPA 234 may not take this course for further credit.

FPA 337 - Intermediate Selected Topics in Film and Video Studies (4)

An intermediate course in critical studies, addressing a variety of topics under this number; for instance, specific genre or area studies (comedy, film noir, science fiction, etc.); national cinemas; film analysis; Third World film, video art, experimental film, etc. The course may be taken again for credit if the topic changes. Prerequisite: Will vary according to subject matter. May repeat for credit. Students who have taken FPA 339 Selected Topics in Film for credit may not take the same topic under FPA 337 for further credit.

FPA 341 - World Music (3)

The relationship of music and culture, with emphasis on traditional and contemporary music in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean, and indigenous cultures of North America. Specific cultural areas may be selected for intensive study in any particular term. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Prerequisite: 45 units.

FPA 359 - Selected Topics in Theatre (3)

A specific topic in theatre which is not otherwise covered in-depth in regular courses. The work may be practical, theoretical or a combination of the two, depending on the particular topic in a given term. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Prerequisite: 30 lower division credits.

FPA 389 - Selected Topics in the Fine and Performing Arts II (3)

A specific topic in fine and performing arts which is not otherwise covered in depth in regular courses and which is not appropriately placed within a single arts discipline. The work will be practical, theoretical, or a combination of the two, depending on the particular topic in a given term. Prerequisite: Will vary with the topic. May be of particular interest to students in other departments.

FPA 401 - Directed Studies (Theory/History) (3)

This course is intended to provide opportunity for advanced students to carry out an independent project which is planned and completed in close consultation with the supervisory instructor. Before enrolment, the student must submit a written proposal outlining the project in detail to the chosen supervisor for approval. Directed studies courses may not be used as a substitute for existing courses. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: REQ-60 units plus a minimum standing of completion of second year in any of the programs offered in the School for the Contemporary Arts, and prior approval.

FPA 403 - Directed Studies (Theory/History) (4)

This course is intended to provide opportunity for advanced students to carry out an independent project which is planned and completed in close consultation with the supervisory instructor. Before enrolment, the student must submit a written proposal outlining the project in detail to the chosen supervisor for approval. Directed studies courses may not be used as a substitute for existing courses. Prerequisite: REQ-60 units plus completion of second year in any of the programs offered in the School for the Contemporary Arts, and prior approval.

FPA 406 - Internship in Contemporary Arts (4)

Provides an opportunity for advanced students to carry out independent projects, which are planned and completed in close consultation with the supervisory instructor. Students are required to write a research essay or other project of equivalent academic value. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.

FPA 412 - Advanced Seminar in Art and Culture Studies (4) *

Provides an in-depth investigation of a selected theoretical, historical or thematic topic in art and culture studies. This course requires independent research leading to a substantial paper, as well as directed reading preparation for seminars. Topics will vary from term to term. The course may be repeated when different topics are offered. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. Prerequisite: Eight upper division units and FPA 210.

FPA 414 - Advanced Topic in the History of Art and Culture (3) *

An in-depth investigation of a selected topic in the history of art and culture. Prerequisite: Will vary according to the topic.

FPA 436 - Advanced Seminar in Film and Video Studies (4)

This course features intensive study and analysis of selected topics in film theory, history, criticism and aesthetics. Examples include: work of specific directors or periods; theories of narrativity; ideological analysis; particular aspects of national cinemas, etc. is taught. Prerequisite: FPA 335 or permission of instructor.

FPA 485 - Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Contemporary Arts (5)

A studio course focusing on creative collaborations between artists of different disciplines. The emphasis is on the creation, analysis and critique of new compositions created in collaboration between senior students in dance, film, music, theatre and visual art. Prerequisite: One FPA studio course at the upper level, a CGPA of 3.0 and an overall average of 3.5 in FPA courses.

FPA 489 - Interdisciplinary Project in FPA (5)

This course permits students to explore the relationships among the arts by undertaking creative projects involving more than one art form. Students will work under the close supervision of one or more faculty and will be required to discuss their work on a regular basis with others involved in the course. Prerequisite: Will vary according to the topic.

GSWS 431 - Local Sex on Global Screen (4)

Examines the globalization of sexual cultures and the emergence of queer cinema and screen culture outside of North America and Europe. Prerequisite: 45 units including six units in GSWS or WS or GDST.

HUM 309 - Literatures and the Arts Across Cultures (4)

An interdisciplinary study of literary texts in translation and/or art forms across cultures and periods. Prerequisite: 45 units. Students with credit for HUM 381 or 382 under this topic may not take this course for further credit.

HUM 311 - Italian Renaissance Humanism (4)

A study of the major writings, cultural milieu, and influence of the humanist movement of the Italian Renaissance. Prerequisite: 45 units. Breadth-Humanities.

HUM 385 - Selected Topics in European Studies (4)

An interdisciplinary approach to a topic focusing on European thought and culture. Prerequisite: 45 units.

HUM 422 - The Humanities and the Critique of Culture (4)

Focuses on the role and practice of cultural critique in the humanities based upon a selection of materials and analytical texts across disciplines. Prerequisite: 45 units, including HUM 101.

SA 245 - Cultures and Images (A) (4)

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of visual anthropology through exploring the creation, circulation, and consumption of images among and between members of diverse cultures in the contemporary world. Topics to be covered include the use of photographs, film and video as a tool in ethnographic research; the use and implications of new information technologies; the 'reading' of photographs, film and video from an anthropological perspective; the emergence and development of non-Western visual media. Prerequisite: SA 101 or 150 or 201W.

SA 460 - Special Topics in Sociology and Anthropology I (SA) (4)

An advanced seminar devoted to an in-depth examination of a topic not regularly offered by the department. Prerequisite: Minimum 72 units including SA 101 or 150 or 201W.

In the upper division, a minimum 12 units within FPA are required.

Other FPA courses can be substituted for courses on this list with permission from area.

* may be completed more than once for credit ifthe topic changes.

Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements

Students admitted to ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See for university-wide information.

WQB Graduation Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit

Requirement

Units

Notes
W - Writing

6

Must include at least one upper division course, taken at ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV within the student’s major subject
Q - Quantitative

6

Q courses may be lower or upper division
B - Breadth

18

Designated Breadth Must be outside the student’s major subject, and may be lower or upper division
6 units Social Sciences: B-Soc
6 units Humanities: B-Hum
6 units Sciences: B-Sci

6

Additional Breadth 6 units outside the student’s major subject (may or may not be B-designated courses, and will likely help fulfil individual degree program requirements)

Students choosing to complete a joint major, joint honours, double major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors may satisfy the breadth requirements (designated or not designated) with courses completed in either one or both program areas.

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Residency Requirements and Transfer Credit

The University’s residency requirement stipulates that, in most cases, total transfer and course challenge credit may not exceed 60 units, and may not include more than 15 as upper division work.

Elective Courses

In addition to the courses listed above, students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.