Sámi Art in Context

The course is mandatory for students in the bachelor's programme in Art History.

It may also be taken as a single course.

This course introduces students to the artistic productions of northern Indigenous peoples, with particular focus on Sámi art. The concept of art is here understood in a broad sense, and includes, among others, traditional and new media, decorated objects (with or without practical functions) and architecture. The course establishes a basic terminological, methodological, ethical and theoretical framework that involves a discussion and problematizing of concepts such as "Indigenous", "modern" and "contemporary", for example. In our analyses, we connect artworks to debates and theories relevant to current discourses in the disciplines of art history, Indigenous studies and the broader humanities.

Higher Education Entrance Qualification (generell studiekompetanse) or prior learning and work experience (realkompetanse).

Application code (Nordic applicants): 9199

Previous courses in art history is recommended but not a requirement.

After completing the course, you will have the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

You will have developed knowledge and understanding in the areas listed below:

• Sámi art (dáidda, duodji, architecture) in recent times.
• The establishment of an institutional framework for Sámi art (through for example art schools, centres, exhibitions, criticism, collections and architecture).
• Examples of art produced by other Indigenous peoples in Northern and Arctic areas.
• Central categories and definitions relating to Sámi and Indigenous art and their effect on art historical practice.

Skills

You will be able to:

• Work independently with research problems and debated art historical problems.
• Discuss and problematize Indigenous art, contemporary art, duodji, design and public architecture in the context of Sámi and other relevant cultures.
• Communicate art historical research problems, analyses, and interpretations of Indigenous art of the northern areas to specialists and to the general public.
• Structure and formulate complex academic discussions.

If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:

• KVI-2516 Sámi Art and Handcraft/duodji 10 ects
• KVI-2516 Indigenous Art 10 ects

The course is organized in three seminars, with each extending over two days. The seminars take place at the beginning, middle and end of the semester and amounts to a total of about 26-30 hours.

The course employs a number of teaching methods, ranging from dialogic lectures to group discussions and presentations with an active use of visual media. We also visit museum- and gallery exhibitions in order to view and discuss works of art in situ. Lecturers give individual and collective guidance to students.

Language of instruction and examination

This course is open to incoming exchange students.

Study level: Bachelor’s

Admission prerequisites:
This course has admission prerequisites, which are listed under the Admission requirements section. Please review this information carefully before adding the course to your Learning Agreement.

For details on how to apply for exchange, course selection guidelines, or to contact the Incoming Admissions Team, please visit: Admissions for Student Exchange.

More info about the coursework requirements

Re-sit examination