ART & DESIGN CRITICISMVet: a linking chain of artwork that led my research, which influenced my choices. Each step took me out of the familiar into new outlooks and questions that may inform and transform my own practice. Ciara Connolly

The Narrative LineObjectives:Criticism as a form of action research

• Planning• Acting• Observing• Reflecting

To explore…Actual and spectacle dynamics of display

To examine…Power struggle between craft and fine arts

Which led to….

Praxis – practical theory that informs & transforms?

Old habits in art history and criticism, genres and geographies – still relevant?

SettlementObjectives:Relationship between value and critical judgement in public art

To examine …Function of public art

To discuss…Commissioning process of public art

Which led to…

How does cultural understanding affect

our ability to appreciate art?

Is prior learning essential or should art be measured by

its accessibility?

The Geneva WindowObjective:Artworks as artefacts of social and cultural history

To explore…the experience of looking

To understand …Art from standpoints outside our own experiences and mores

Which led to…

• Reconsidering influence and effect of ‘eurocentric’ art ideals

• Can art be measured by its ability to deliver its message?

• Ethical responsibility of artists?

What do we want? When do we want it?

Objectives:Systematic review of art as visual communication, against the backdrop of non-traditional art.

To synthesise..Previous art critical experiences and methods

To examine..Art, accessibility and ethics

Which led me to…

It’s this glimpse which inspires you – like an occurrence

And I notice those are always my moments of having an idea

That maybe I could start a painting.

Willem de Kooning