KAB130 Open Studio: Object/Space

Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Kelvin Grove, Internal

Overview

This unit introduces experimental approaches and expanded 3D art practice in the open studio including sculpture, objects, assemblage, environments and installation. These investigations are grounded in understanding 20th and 21st century art practices and key theoretical frameworks in relation to object-making, spatial art, context and site. The expanded field of contemporary sculpture encompasses a broad range of conceptual approaches and material processes including social sculpture, environmental and public art. This unit provides practical activities to develop independent 3D artworks, framed by the theory and practice of site-responsive art and by contemporary Indigenous and ecological perspectives.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Identify, demonstrate and discuss techniques, concepts and contemporary cultural contexts in relation to sculpture and 3D art
2. Creatively apply technical skills and theoretical knowledge in the sustainable production and presentation of sculpture and 3D art
3. Describe and analyse the form, process, content and context of sculpture and 3D art
4. Communicate effectively in oral, written and visual modes appropriate to contemporary art contexts

Content

Learning Approaches

In this unit, you will learn by engaging in the following: 

lectures that address key conceptual frameworks in relation to the expanded field of sculpture and introduce key artists who employ diverse approaches to spatial art practice, with tutorial-based discussions and analysis of key critical texts and contextual artworks. This will be complemented by site visits to view sculptures in situ, in local art galleries and public spaces. In studio-based activities, you will explore conceptual approaches and technical processes in relation to 3D art, leading to the development and presentation of a major independent creative work. You will critically reflect on your own and other’s artworks to test your observations and ideas, and to assist in the development of your ability to communicate effectively within the context of engaged, contemporary spatial art practice.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

You will gain feedback in this unit by participating in regular critiques with academics and peers. You will also receive written feedback on studio processes and research in Assessment 2, which will relate to and inform your major creative work.

Assessment

Overview

The summative assessment for this unit includes writing an interpretative text of 3D artworks in gallery or public contexts, the development of sculptural and spatial artworks, and a written contextual review of relevant artists and artworks. This culminates in a major 3D artwork accompanied by a written artwork rationale. Formative assessment involves regular in-progress feedback on artwork concepts and techniques through individual and group critiques.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Artwork Review

You will research and write an analysis of a 3D artwork in its gallery or public art context, in a form appropriate for an online art tour.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Assessment: Studio Folio and Artist Review

You will submit a studio folio documenting works in progress and a written contextual review of relevant artists and artworks.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions. 

Assessment: Creative Work: Spatial

You will submit a major 3D artwork with supporting documentation and a researched rationale that analyses and contextualises the artwork.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.

The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Requirements to Study

Requirements

All students are requested to visit and review the Health and Safety information on the HiQ web pages (CIESJ Tier 1 HSE requirement) 

This unit also requires a Tier 2 CIESJ Health and Safety Induction which is provided by the technician on site in the theatre, workshop or studio. Some students may be required to complete a Tier 3 CIESJ Health and Safety Induction which is a hands on induction on specific machinery.

A Project Risk Management Plan is also mandatory.

Costs

Student contributions to the production costs of artworks. Cost varies depending on the nature of individual studio practice.

Resources

Resource Materials

Other

To enable your full participation in units that utilise virtual learning environments, for example participating in online activities and engaging with online learning materials, you will need access to a reliable computer with an internet connection, webcam, headset and microphone, as well as a learning environment where you are able to fully participate undisturbed when required.  

Risk Assessment Statement

For risks associated with using campus buildings or QUT facilities, refer to the HiQ Health and Safety information. 

You are advised to take regular rest breaks when engaging in prolonged computer-based work and ensure that your workstation is set up for optimal comfort to prevent strain or injury.

For CIESJ Tiers 2 and 3 Health and Safety requirements, you will be instructed on safe procedures and the required safety gear for all studio and workshop processes that are demonstrated. Health and Safety files are readily available for all materials and machinery in all studio areas. Technical supervision is provided for workshops and available on a regular basis during the week. Technical supervision is mandatory in 3D workshop and printmaking studios.

A minimum of three students is required for after-hours access to studios.

Risk assessment forms must be completed and submitted before project work starts. You have an obligation to make yourself familiar with and adhere to the Contemporary Art Studio Health and Safety Procedures and Documents provided on Canvas as part of the unit. For further information also refer to the QUT Health and Safety website.

Contemporary Art engages with a wide range of content and contexts and this unit may include the presentation and scholarly analysis of material and subject matter that could be considered confronting or triggering. This includes, but is not limited to, discussions about and representations of trauma and violence, as well as experiences of mental and physical health. These may be in relation to topics including race, class, gender, politics, and religion. QUT counselling support is available should you feel the need to avail yourself of these services.

Course Learning Outcomes

CA01 Bachelor of Creative Arts

1. Cite and discuss a broad and coherent knowledge of historical and contemporary cultural contexts for creative practice, including the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges.
   Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
2. Identify and demonstrate knowledge of the techniques and concepts underpinning your field of creative practice.
   Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
3. Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of ideas and outcomes.
   Relates to: ULO2, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
4. Demonstrate technical proficiency and a knowledge of contemporary digital practices and technologies in one or more disciplines and apply these in creative and critical settings.
   Relates to: ULO2, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
5. Communicate independent learning clearly and coherently in diverse modes relevant to your field of creative practice.
   Relates to: ULO4, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
6. Communicate, represent, and promote your work in ways relevant to your creative field.
   Relates to: ULO4, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
7. Discern, critically analyse, and synthesise knowledge in complex creative and critical settings.
   Relates to: ULO3, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
8. Formulate and apply an independent perspective through contextual research, reflection, and by acting on the informed critique of others.
   Relates to: ULO4, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial
9. Demonstrate respect for cultural and social differences, sustainability, and work with integrity across all practice and professional settings.
   Relates to: ULO1, Artwork Review
10. Operate with initiative, ethical judgement and professionalism, both alone and in groups.
    Relates to: ULO4, Artwork Review, Studio Folio and Artist Review, Creative Work: Spatial