May 2022
ARTH 202 (CRN 677) (3 credits)
Introduction to Contemporary Art
Nicolas Michael Holt
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
11:05 am - 1:25 pm
Arts W-120
This course is a mix between a more conventional art historical survey course鈥攃overing a selection of major movements and themes of art since 1945鈥攁nd a deeper dive into some key theoretical currents shaping the art of the twenty-first century鈥攚ith an emphasis on Indigeneity, decoloniality, the Anthropocene, and aesthetic responses to the climate crisis. The objective of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the historical dimensions of 鈥渃ontemporary鈥� art, while introducing them to the ideas informing the practices of artists working in the present day.
The course begins with an orthodox orientation鈥攆iguring modernism and its continuations and rejections as critical for the origins of contemporary art鈥攁nd goes on to progressively complicate this narrative over time, concluding primarily with the voices of Indigenous artists and thinkers who have been historically excluded from the schema of modernism and modernity writ large. Understanding this play of tensions is positioned here as key for understanding contemporary art.
Writing is a craft, and the writing of art history adheres to specific tropes and modes unique to the discipline. Translating visual and aesthetic phenomena into words comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. That said, this course will feature assignments intended to aid students in developing their art historical writing skills鈥攕uch as how to perform visual analysis, and how to carefully explain the theoretical supports with which contemporary art is in dialogue.
Lastly, this course will be conducted in-person and is designed to strongly encourage regular attendance. If you are not able to regularly attend, I would suggest finding another course. It has been quite some time since in-person teaching was available, and I intend to take advantage of this opportunity. Some lecture material will be made available online, though lectures will not be recorded and the in-person taking of notes will also be strongly encouraged.
COMS 200 (CRN 678) (3 credits)
History of Communication
Dr. Gabrielle Kielich
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
1:35 pm - 3:55 pm
Arts W-120
This course is a survey of the history of communication. It explores key issues, concepts and technological developments in communication history and examines the relationship between media, culture and society. It will provide insights into the varied factors that shape media and communications and the role they play in everyday life. The course will highlight change and continuity throughout the history of communication and show how the past is a useful resource for making sense of the present and future.