Art criticism is essential to the development of a dynamic and vibrant art scene and tradition. In curatorial and artistic practice, good writing skills combined with a critical mindset are a necessity on various levels, such as applying for funding, presenting an exhibition project, writing texts for catalogues, press releases, and about the art pieces in the show.

This is a very hands-on course, filled with in-class exercises, active engagement and assignments. In this course we will dedicate ourselves to the writing of short-form art critical reviews. We will learn how to formulate an idea with clarity, how to analyze and evaluate art and its display in a thoughtful, meaningful way. A range of critical methods as well as different outlets (art magazine, newspaper, blog,etc.) are discussed.

With stage-by-stage guidance the participants are supported in their endeavor to experiment, to be creative, and especially to develop their own style. So we exercise, sharpen and shape both imagination and skill. Writing about art has no template, in the workshop we treat it as an evolving social form.


*This course offers University credits. To opt for credits read this page

Image: Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke via Pixabay

Video conferences every Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm Berlin Time CEST. Recordings will be available in case you miss a live session!

Week 1. Introduction

  • Introduction to the program and course overview.

This is a one-hour-only welcome session. The lecturer will introduce the program and participants will introduce themselves. No prior preparation is necessary.


Week 2. 

  • the position of critical writing in the contemporary art world. 
  • the difficulties and opportunities of writing and publishing art criticism
  • examining examples of art criticism: questioning and challenging clichés and jargons of the genre
  • reflection: can we define the characteristics of good art critical writing?
  • homework: creating a “pillow book list”


Week 3. 

  • discussion of art and its qualities
  • writing about exhibition displays: strategies, tools, and parameters of forming your opinion of an exhibition
  • homework: writing exercise (involves visiting an exhibition opening)


Week 4. 

  • feedback and workshopping texts
  • subjectivity and objectivity in critical writing: how are you positioned?
  • homework: writing exercise


Week 5. 

  • workshopping texts

  • the advantages/disadvantages of various formats, such as blogging, reportage, etc.

  • negotiating fees for writing and the benefit of saying no/yes

Language
Classes are held in English.

Format & Modality
The course is fully online and taught live via Zoom in small, interactive groups to support active learning. Live captioning is available during the sessions.

Schedule
Live sessions take place every Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm (Berlin time, CEST).

Attendance
Live attendance is encouraged to get the most out of the course, but recordings are available if you cannot attend a session.

Course Materials
All course materials—including recordings, readings, and presentations—are available on the Node platform for as long as you wish.

Assignments
Optional assignments are included, with personal feedback from the lecturers to help you apply what you learn. Please note that feedback is provided only during the course dates.

Certificate
A downloadable certificate is available upon course completion.

Technical Requirements
A stable internet connection, a computer with a camera and microphone, and access to Zoom are required.

Questions?
Check our FAQ or contact us via our online form.


An Paenhuysen

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