History, Theory, Methods: Great Collections, and Practices in Curation

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 7
• Convenors and tutors: Dr Janet McCabe, Helen De Witt
• Assessment: two 3000-word research exercises (50% each)

In this module we examine film collections and how the archive is exhibited, then explore the practical and critical skills involved in programming the moving image for an audience. You will also undertake a placement, in a work environment related to aspects of film programming, archiving or exhibition.

Indicative syllabus

• Film programming at institutions including the BFI and ICA (subject to availability)
• Archival practices and exhibiting the archive
• Independent programming
• Understanding distribution, copyright issues and marketing
• Tracing and acquiring film prints
• Programming for a specific audience

By the end of this module, you will:

• understand relevant areas of cultural theory and media history related to film programming and curation 
• understand the status of the moving image within archives 
• understand the diversity of film programming and curatorial practices 
• be able to apply theoretical concepts to particular issues related to the film programming and curation.