Theory for practice
The course elements offered in Art Studies concentrate mainly on familiarising students of the Art and Design faculties with methods of reflection. The lectures and seminars focus in a targeted manner on the analysis of knowledge and ideas that are associated with the use of the techniques, tools and materials of the various areas and media that are taught in the faculties of Art and Design. Taking historical work approaches and historical constellations as examples, we show how artists have taken up active positions relative to the knowledge and social codes that are the foundation of their production means. In addition, Art Studies will introduce students to various historical conceptions of seeing and perceiving; this subject deals with the most important modes of interpreting images; addresses historical issues regarding the images of trades and of artists’ professions; it also attempts to ensure that students possess basic knowledge of the mechanisms of distribution and reception of art, alongside the implications that are associated with the production of art.
The transdisciplinary Master's course in Art Sciences combines the academic disciplines of art history, philosophy and art education. Fields of research lie in the reflection, exhibition and mediation of art. Building on the knowledge deepened through interactive teaching formats, practical professional skills in the areas of curating, art criticism, art education and editing are promoted and tested in the context of concrete project work.
The supervised doctoral programmes are primarily situated in the fields of contemporary art and thought as well as mediation.
A research project running from 2023-2026 and funded by the Ministry of Science, Energy and Climate Protection is dedicated to the history of the predecessor institution of Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle during National Socialism under the leadership of the Art History Department.
