Profile
The Chair of Modern and Contemporary Art (Tannhauser Foundation Chair of Contemporary Art) is directed by Prof. Dr. Peter J. Schneemann. The Chair’s focus is on art and art theory from the early twentieth century to the present day; this emphasis on contemporary forms of art practice was an initial focus of the course of study and remains, to this day, especially important to its program.
Contents
The Chair of Modern and Contemporary Art History is headed by Prof. Dr. Peter J. Schneemann. Its subject is the art and art theory of the early twentieth century through to the present day. All media, including inter-medial genres, of art practice from the classic avant-gardes to the contemporary moment constitute the focus of the Chair’s research. The Chair assigns particular importance to contemporary art, a subject that presents a constant challenge to art historical methodology. The task of developing critical instruments to describe and analyze the art of today demands careful attention to contexts, as well as scrutiny and analysis of art theory, as well as the social conditions of contemporary art production and reception. Interdisciplinary approaches that draw from subjects such as philosophy, psychology, sociology, film, literature, and performance studies have also proved to be not only useful, but necessary analytical tools. This critical perspective on contemporary art is particularly important since art history itself, through its historiographic function, has a decisive effect on the process of contemporary art production, which is deeply intertwined in its contemporary historicization.
Study
The Bachelor’s program concentrates on introducing students to the foundational art historical methods of description, interpretation, and contextualization of visual art. In the Master’s program, students will deepen their research focus and methodological approach while preparing for their theses. The Chair works closely with regional and international institutions (art academies, kunsthallen, museums, and galleries). This offers students a chance to balance their theoretical reflections with practice-based, direct contact to art objects, their production, and their reception. Regular excursions to current exhibitions are built into the program of study.
Specificities of the program
The Chair is strongly oriented toward a practical relationship with art and attempts to develop a project-oriented approach to the topic. The Institute’s library is rich in resources related to modern and contemporary art, which facilitates students’ work, and its holdings are also strong in current disciplinary issues including museology, curatorial studies, new media, and gender studies.
