Duration
30h Th, 15h Pr
Number of credits
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the second semester
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
The course explores the multiple connections between anthropology and art through a dual movement: on the one hand, by providing an introduction to the anthropology of art and to the exchanges between anthropological and artistic approaches; on the other, by serving as a space for methodological and creative experimentation, allowing students to think and practice ethnography differently.
The course is thus organized into two complementary sections:
- The first focuses on the theoretical and historical foundations of the links between anthropology and art, addressing key concepts and major debates through selected readings;
- The second section emphasizes the concrete contributions of artistic methods to ethnographic practice, at different stages of research (observation, description, analysis, dissemination, and restitution).
Across these activities, the course more broadly aims to sharpen students' capacity for observation by cultivating an education of attention (Ingold), an art of noticing (Tsing), and by working on the sensory dimension of ethnography.
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
- Explore the analytically fruitful dialogue between art and anthropology and situate the main theoretical debates;
- Develop a critical understanding of the contributions and limitations of artistic approaches in anthropology;
- Gain concrete experience with creative methods to enrich ethnographic research, articulating scientific rigor with sensory exploration;
- Experiment with co-creation alongside peers and artists;
- Sharpen their attention and refine their observational skills.
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
- Intellectual curiosity for both ethnography and art;
- Proficiency in French and English (required for the readings);
- Basic skills in the use of standard computer software.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
The course takes the form of a dynamic seminar alternating between readings, in-class discussions, and experimental practice (observation, description, and hands-on exercises). The seminar is also designed as a space for openness and exchange, with guest lecturers and "off-campus" sessions.
Specifically, the course includes:
- Lectures with opportunities for discussion;
- Individual and group exercises;
- Guest contributions from anthropologists and/or artists;
- Off-campus activities: visits to exhibitions, studios, and creative spaces;
- Practical interdisciplinary workshops in collaboration with the École Supérieure des Arts Saint-Luc.
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Face-to-face course
Further information:
The practical component of this course relies on students' active participation, their willingness to work collaboratively, and their ability to attend activities taking place outside the university.
Course materials and recommended or required readings
Platform(s) used for course materials:
- MyULiège
Further information:
A reading portfolio (mandatory and recommended texts) will be provided during the course.
Exam(s) in session
Any session
- In-person
oral exam
Written work / report
Continuous assessment
Further information:
Continuous assessment is based on:
- Active participation in class and during off-campus activities;
- Completion of two short assignments (a written report and a statement of intent).
- The final exam consists of two components: submission of a written reflective report, which may integrate different media, and oral discussion of the report during the exam session.
Work placement(s)
Organisational remarks and main changes to the course
The course takes place during the second semester, on Tuesday afternoons in seminar eoom 11 (B31). Dates and locations of each session are available in the CELCAT online calendar.
The schedule of off-campus activities will be determined in agreement with other members of the master's program faculty.
Contacts
Juliette Salme - j.salme@uliege.be