mres art is made up of three specialist pathways: theory and philosophy; moving image; and exhibition studies. mres art uses research and writing to develop modes of questioning, speculative thinking and critical evaluation. drawing upon a wealth of scholarly expertise from the staff team, visiting lecturers and practitioners, the course considers the relationship of contemporary art research to wider aesthetic, cultural and socio-political issues. there are opportunities for students on each pathway to come together for shared taught components. mres art: exhibition studies asks the following core questions: can we tell a different story of modern and contemporary art through its exhibitions? what does the history of exhibitions tell us about the wider cultural field in which artworks are produced and made public? and, finally, how can it inform more transformative and sustainable curatorial practices in the future? drawing on an interdisciplinary field of theory from the arts and the humanities, the pathway will introduce you to significant debates in the field of contemporary art and curatorial studies. you will gain in-depth knowledge of the history of exhibitions, as well as contemporary practices that seek to reimagine art’s relation to its publics through decentralised, relational and collaborative approaches. you will be encouraged to interrogate the norms embedded in art institutions and participate in shaping practices that work to advance decolonial, just and sustainable futures. this pathway is delivered in collaboration with afterall research centre. you will have unique access to its network of contributors and partner institutions, including high-profile curators and theorists. you will also engage in participatory forms of learning that will expose you to diverse perspectives, foster critical and creative thinking, and enhance your teamwork skills.