The Glasgow School of Art

The Glasgow School of Art hosts a CHEAD Regional Seminar on The Role of Critical and Contextual Studies in Art School Education.

Recent changes to Art and Design Higher Education, prompted by diverse drivers such as funding cuts and the emergence of the reflective practitioner, has brought the debate about the role of Critical and Contextual Studies (CCS) back into sharp focus. If the role of CCS is no longer ‘to elevate’ and ‘lend academic credibility’ to studio practice, as was the case when the history and theory of art and design were first introduced to art school Higher Education following the Coldstream Reports (1960, 1970), then what do we see as its role both now and in the future?

Across the UK there exists a variety of curricular and organisational CCS models, which are reflected in the different approaches taken by the four Scottish Art Schools: The Glasgow School of Art (GSA), Edinburgh College of Art (ECA), Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design (DJCAD) and Gray’s School of Art. This event brings together CCS scholars from all four Scottish Art Schools to share best practice across our various models and to debate the central question: what is, and should be, the role of Critical and Contextual Studies in Art and Design Higher Education today?

The keynote will be given by Dr Annebella Pollen, Senior Lecturer in the History of Art and Design and Head of Historical and Critical Studies at University of Brighton, followed by short presentations from key CCS staff from each of the four Scottish Art Schools.

The seminar will provide excellent networking opportunities and is open to staff from all Scottish Art Schools as well as interested staff from other HEIs and CHEAD members across the UK.

Thursday 29th May, 12:00pm – 5:30pm (includes lunch and reception)
The Glasgow School of Art

Places are free, but limited - please RSVP to Elaine Boyle: e.boyle@gsa.ac.uk