American Studies 411 - SEM:AMER CULT:CNVNTIONS/CONTXT

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 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 make use of the rich resources of the Smithsonian as well as other museums in Washington, D.C. Class discussion is balanced with behind-the-scenes visits/field trips to museums, where we 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.