An in-depth study of a particular topic in the history of art. It may be an examination of a specific artist, group or movement or an exploration of a particular theme or issue in art.
| Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | Varies according to topic offered | 1/4 - 1/2 - 1 course |
Fall Semester information
Sarah Cowan290A: Topics:The Halftime Show: Race, Gender, and Sexuality in Popular Culture
This art history course uses the most watched telecast in recent American history--the NFL's annual Super Bowl Halftime Show--as a launching pad for critical conversations about popular representations of identity. What can we learn about race, gender, sexuality, and class by examining performances on the country's biggest cultural stage? How have artists amplified or challenged cultural hegemony through their performances? To answer these questions, the class will analyze Halftime Show performances of the modern era (since the early 1990s) and the social, political, and cultural themes they evoke. For instance, we will study the hype around Kendrick Lamar's much-anticipated 2025 Halftime Show in relation to the polarization of national politics, social media consumption, and the #MeToo movement. As a W course, the class challenges students to improve their understanding of writing as thinking. Another motivating goal is to provide students with the tools to critically engage with everyday culture.
Joseph Albanese
290B: Topics:Mary: Virgin, Mother, Goddess
Spring Semester information
Joseph Albanese290A: Topics:Colonial Art and Visual Cultures in Latin America.
Sarah Cowan
290B: Topics:The History of Art
Lyle Dechant