Critical Studies in Art and Design Education

This book reviews past practice and theory in critical studies and discusses various trends; some papers keenly advocate a re-conceptualization of the whole subject area, while others describe aspects of current and past practice which exemplify the symbiotic relationship between practical studio work and critical engagement with visual form. Rod Taylor, who has done much to promote and develop critical studies in the UK, provides examples of classroom practice and gives his thoughts on fundamental issues - 'universal themes' in art - and gives examples of how both primary and secondary schools might develop their teaching of art through attending to themes such as 'identity', 'myth' and 'environments' to help 'reanimate the practical curriculum'.Contributors explore visual culture and education in sites such as theme parks and shopping malls; Nick Stanley gives practical examples of ways to engage students with this particular form of visual pleasure. As a whole, this publication serves to highlight pressing issues of concern to art and design teachers across the world. This title contextualizes the development of critical studies and art education, and discusses English National Curriculum alongside more global issues in art education. It is relevant to anyone involved in developing or delivering art curricula in schools.