27753 Arts and Cultural Industries

The central premise of this subject is that art is a social product. This challenges romantic and mystical notions that represent art as 'above' society, as transcending social and historical forces. In arguing against these idealist notions, this subject explores how social, political and economic factors distinguish art from a wide range of regulated cultural practices. The specific focus is on the structures of arts organisations and policy in Australia. Particular issues considered include the politics and history of public support for the arts, the formation of audiences and publics, the economic impact of the arts, the interaction of the public and private sectors and theories of culture and art.