This unique research-based course is for people who are fascinated by trends and meanings in visual and material culture, and who want to become expert in understanding how surface appearance and changing fashions in diverse fields relate to cultural ideas and values. You'll communicate your ideas about culture to a range of audiences in professional and innovative ways. Assessments take the form of academic conference papers, short audio / visual presentations, or documentaries and journalistic articles. This will prepare you for careers in cultural research, or as a commentator.