Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: The Image and The Archive
SCQF level: 09:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: LMD09145
Module leader: Emile Shemilt
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Art Design and Photography
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

This module explores the relationship between photography, history, and the interpretation of knowledge, examining how photographic archives shape cultural memory and artistic practice. You will engage with archival theory and methods, considering how images function as repositories of knowledge, evidence, and creative intervention. A key focus will be on the materiality of the photographic image—both analogue and digital—and the evolving role of archives in shaping contemporary visual culture.Alongside this theoretical inquiry, you will develop a creative practice that critically engages with the archive as a conceptual and material framework. Emphasis is placed on producing new photographic work in response to archival themes, whether through direct engagement with existing collections, reinterpreting historical narratives, or constructing new archives through image-making. You will consider how historical contexts, institutional structures, and archival processes inform artistic decision-making and shape the ways in which images are contextualised, presented, and understood.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Analyse the relationship between photography, historical representation, and the interpretation of knowledge and memory.

LO2: Critically evaluate the role of archival practices, visual collections, and curatorial strategies in shaping contemporary photographic and artistic discourse.

LO3: Develop and articulate a critical response to themes of archives, memory, history, and visual culture, using research to inform creative and conceptual decisions.

LO4: Produce a body of photographic work that demonstrates an informed and reflective engagement with archival or historically-informed methodologies.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Emile Shemilt
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Online Guided independent study 152 Guided by academic staff, you will take ownership of your learning by developing your photographic practice and research beyond taught sessions, through independent study. This process allows you to refine technical skills, deepen conceptual exploration, and engage critically with relevant contexts. By managing your time effectively and applying feedback from critiques and workshops, you will enhance your creative independence and develop a more autonomous approach to your work.
Face To Face Seminar 12 You will engage in critical discussions on key texts and established photographic works, developing your analytical and interpretive skills. Guided by tutors, these sessions encourage you to articulate ideas, question assumptions, and connect theoretical concepts to photographic practice. By contributing to discussions, debating perspectives, and critically reflecting on readings and images, you will deepen your understanding of photography’s cultural, historical, and conceptual significance.
Face To Face Lecture 16 You will explore the key concepts, historical developments, and critical debates in photography relevant to this module. Delivered by academic tutors, lectures provide foundational knowledge, theoretical frameworks, and contextualisation for photographic practice. By actively engaging with, and reflecting on presented ideas, you will deepen your understanding of photography’s technical, cultural, and conceptual dimensions.
Face To Face Tutorial 20 Via tutorials and group critique, you will present your photographic work for discussion and feedback from peers and tutors. This process fosters critical reflection, constructive critique, and deeper engagement with your creative practice. You will articulate your conceptual and technical choices, gain diverse perspectives, and consider your work within broader photographic contexts. By contributing to discussions, you will support peer learning while refining your practice and critical skills.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Essay 50 1~2~3 Exam Period , WORDS= 2500 A written essay demonstrating critical engagement with archival theory and photographic practice. The essay should analyse photographic archive theory, examining how images contribute to the construction of history, memory, and artistic interpretation. Through research and critical analysis, students will contextualise their own practice or explore the work of relevant artists and photographers who engage with archival materials or archival approaches to photography.
Project - Practical 50 1~3~4 Exam Period HOURS= Body of work A submission of photographic work developed throughout the module, demonstrating critical engagement with archival concepts, creative exploration, and the application of relevant techniques. The number of images required for submission will be determined in consultation with your tutor, based on the creative scope and ambitions of your project.
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Contact your module leader
 

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