Postgraduate Prospectus

“My research focuses on the role of drawing in New York based artistic practices of the 1960s and 70s. Working on such a recent period in art history has enabled me to combine archival research with artists’ interviews, making it a fascinating and challenging project.

This research also informs my teaching, which covers modern and contemporary art with an emphasis on the 1960s and their legacies. Our Department is particularly strong on twentieth century art, with other members of staff specialising in the history of photography and American modernism. More broadly, research interests in the Department include issues of gender in the Renaissance, landscape and Land Art in Britain, visual culture of the French Revolution and display and spectacle.

A particular highlight within the Department at the moment is the introduction of the new MA pathway ‘Modern Art, Criticism and Display.’ A number of staff members have been involved in major exhibitions, which means that their experience actively informs the course content. Students benefit from our location in the Lakeside Arts Centre, which also houses the Djanogly Art Gallery. The Department offers a strong sense of community and opportunities for postgraduates to become involved in research seminars and major conferences.

As we cover a wide range of research interests, I would recommend that students thinking about applying for a PhD contact us for an informal chat about their interests and to determine who the most appropriate supervisor would be for their research.”

“I am really enjoying the MA in Art History – although it’s a taught degree, a lot of emphasis is placed on independent learning, and the dissertation component in particular gives you the opportunity to work alone and explore a subject you’re interested in to a greater depth. I have found my tutors very supportive of this exploration.

I am now working on my dissertation, which is about ‘The Uncanny’ and how this is represented and portrayed. I am concentrating on an exhibition called ‘The Uncanny’ by Los Angeles-based sculptor, performance and installation artist, Mike Kelley.

When putting together the rough draft of my research proposal, the Department comes together to give feedback, which was really helpful.

There are lots of opportunities for interdisciplinary study within the Department of Art History. I have been actively encouraged to sit in on lectures in other departments if I feel this will enrich and inform my research.

The facilities in the Department are good – there is a postgraduate study room with access to computers, printers and a scanner. The Visual Resource Centre offers students access to slides, books, DVDs and videos.

I am now considering applying for a PhD, although I think I will take some time out first. My advice to anyone considering an MA is to make the most of any opportunity and to really enjoy what you’re doing – after all, it's more than just a degree, it could be the beginning of the rest of your life.”