This course critically examines issues and debates brought up by key concepts of contemporary visual arts theory and criticism in considering creative practices in relation to modern and post-modern conventions of cultures. It aims to analyse a variety of theoretical and critical approaches of studying contemporary visual arts, and contextualize contemporary practices within wider context of a globalized art scene. This course is designed to be a systematic survey of critics, theorists and philosophers who have offered different interpretive tools that enable students to articulate the significance of art/craft/design practices, and reflect upon the complex nature of the contemporary visual and material culture.

A wide range of issues in connection to current trends of contemporary visual arts and culture will be discussed along with the study of relevant art/craft/design theories, movements and artists'/artisans'/designers' works. Both local and global perspectives are to be employed in the discussion.

Students are expected to acquire informed awareness of those issues, and to develop theoretical and critical responses to them within their own creative practices. The choice of art form(s)/ media, the relevant media skills and techniques as well as their relations with the identified theories and criticisms will be at the centre of their considerations of own creative practices.