American Studies 411 - SEM:AMER CULT: COPY IN MUSEUM
Fall
2014
01
4.00
Ellen Todd
Smith College
10063-F14
etodd@smith.edu
Exhibiting Culture: An Introduction to Museum Studies in America.
This seminar examines the history, functions, and meanings of museums in society, focusing primarily on the art museum in the United States. Drawing on the ever-growing literature on museology, we will look critically at the ways that museums ? through their policies, programs, architecture, and exhibitions ? can define regional or national values, shape cultural attitudes and identities, and influence public opinion about both current and historical events. As the course is concerned with both theory and practice, and the intersection of the two, we will make use of the rich resources of the Smithsonian as well as other museums in Washington, D.C. Class discussion will be balanced with behind-the-scenes visits/field trips to museums, where we will speak with dedicated professionals who are engaged in innovative and often challenging work in the nation?s capital. (Open only to members of the Smithsonian Internship Program. Given in Washington, D.C.).
This seminar examines the history, functions, and meanings of museums in society, focusing primarily on the art museum in the United States. Drawing on the ever-growing literature on museology, we will look critically at the ways that museums ? through their policies, programs, architecture, and exhibitions ? can define regional or national values, shape cultural attitudes and identities, and influence public opinion about both current and historical events. As the course is concerned with both theory and practice, and the intersection of the two, we will make use of the rich resources of the Smithsonian as well as other museums in Washington, D.C. Class discussion will be balanced with behind-the-scenes visits/field trips to museums, where we will speak with dedicated professionals who are engaged in innovative and often challenging work in the nation?s capital. (Open only to members of the Smithsonian Internship Program. Given in Washington, D.C.).
Instructor Permission.