Critical Writing for the Arts
F05
Dana Reitz
Critical writing, at its best, is not mere opinion but rather arises out of the act of seeing, in the fullest sense of the word, and is enriched by the ability to recognize historical and cultural context of the work(s) in question. This introduction to critical writing regards the work found in a variety of arts disciplines. Students will study the writing of a number of critics, ranging from Charles Baudelaire (mid-19th century) to Edwin Denby (mid-20th century) to current writers, will consider historical perspective, and will develop a writing practice of their own. They are expected to write observations of dance, music, theater, visual art, and so on, on a weekly basis using studio and gallery showings, performances, recordings, videotapes, and films as source material. They will read articles and books written by past critics and are expected to research criticism, again on a weekly basis, from current newspaper articles, books, and magazines.