This module explores the role of art and architecture in the construction of nations and empires between 1750-1950. The module will include an examination of visual art, sculpture and architecture. The syllabus will focus on case studies and examples from Ireland, the USA, and from across the British Empire. There will be an emphasis on understanding and exploring the role of art and architecture in creating visual representations of nation and empire, and the extent to which theories and critiques of nationalism and imperialism can provide valuable frameworks for art and architectural history. Issues of race, ethnicity and histories of slavery will also form part of this module. The module will explore the dynamics between centres and peripheries in relation to imperial culture, and the capacity for art to translate and resist imperial and national ideologies.

This module explores the role of art and architecture in the construction of nations and empires between 1750-1950. It will include an exploration of visual art, sculpture, and architecture, drawing on examples from Ireland, the USA, and from across the British Empire. The extent to which art, sculpture and architecture were used as powerful tools for the creation and expression of national and imperial ideology and identities will be a central focus of this module, as well as the role of art in resisting specific national and imperial identities. There will be an emphasis on cultural exchange and translation. Issues of race, ethnicity and histories of slavery will also form part of this module. This module will provide students with a comprehensive introduction to key examples of visual art, architecture and sculpture during the period 1750-1950, and to key theories and approaches to analysis and interpretation.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Identify key works of art, sculpture, and architecture connected to ideas of empire and nation between 1750-1950; Demonstrate skills in visual analysis and interpretation; Demonstrate an understanding of key theoretical and critical concepts relating to art, power, nationalism, and empire; Engage critically with key primary and secondary sources connected to the syllabus and module topic; Create presentations and exhibition catalogue entries for specific works of art, sculpture or architecture.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Demonstrate an understanding of the dynamics of imperialism and imperial resistance as expressed through visual art, sculpture, and architecture; Create innovate ways of articulating and communicating key ideas about the art, architecture and sculpture; Work proactively and collaboratively with peers in providing feedback throughout the module on group assignments.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: N/A

This module will be delivered as a blended module, combining in-class delivery with online modes of engagement and teaching and learning as appropriate. Students will explore key works of art, architecture, and sculpture, as well as primary sources, secondary literature, and theoretical frameworks. This module is based on recent and emerging research paradigms that foreground issues of imperialism, power, transnational exchange, and resistance in histories of art and architecture. Through engagement with the syllabus, students will become knowledgeable about their field of study, engaging critically with key texts and primary sources, as well as the original works of art, sculpture, and architecture themselves. This module draws on recent scholarship in the field of history of art and architecture, reflecting innovative research in this area. Students will work collaboratively throughout the module, and will provide peer feedback to each other on work in development. This will encourage students to engage in a responsible way towards each other throughout the module, as well as being responsible and proactive in relation to their own learning. The development of exhibition catalogue entries as part of the module assessment will enable them to work creatively and proactively. The development of module presentations, assignments, and e-tivities will enable them to become articulate across different modes of presentation and communication.