Exhibition and Display of Art and Material Culture
Photo Essays:
Location: London, UK
Dates: January 4-17, 2009
Application Deadline: Early decision Oct 12; Regular decision November 1, 2008
The course is a survey that examines contemporary issues in the exhibition and display of art and material culture. The theory that underpins practice is considered within thematic groups: art world ecosystems; typologies and frameworks for exhibition making; curatorial roles; interpretation; authenticity, and identity; establishing value; and spectacle. Examples are drawn from an international selection of museums, galleries, periodic exhibitions, and heritage sites. The discussion framework includes the physical and conceptual contexts, motivations, and educational goals that shape interpretation and presentation. There are lecture / discussions, site visits and guest speakers.
Learning Goals
Students develop an interdisciplinary approach to connecting historical precedents with current examples of mainstream and alternative strategies of display. Analysis and critique of exhibitions and how they relate to the issues is the main methodology for course discussions and assignments. Students become familiar with advanced theories and approaches to formulate valid, broad-based critique and evaluation. There are readings, oral and written reports, and a final paper. Enrollment is limited to 15 students.
Course
E90.2027.095. 3 Points. Offered through Art and Art Professions
Faculty
Carlo Lamagna, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Art and Art Professions
Accommodations
Students stay at the Nido Student Housing Complex in the Kings Cross section of London.
Helpful link: NYU London, Lonely Planet Guide
Check-in on Jan 4 after 3pm and Check-Out on Jan 17 before 12 pm
Field Trips
London is at its peak as an international center for art and heritage activity. Generous government funding over the last ten years has generated an unprecedented building and renovation boom in museums, accompanied by innovative programming and educational outreach. This has coalesced with the supercharged global art market to make the city an exciting, multifaceted venue for this study. Possible site visits include Sir John Soane's Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Tate Modern, the British Museum, the Serpentine Gallery, the Institute of Contemporary Arts and a for-profit contemporary art gallery.
Costs
Tuition: Regular NYU Spring tuition plus fees; Housing Fee: approximately $800, based on double occupancy, Activities fee: approximately $300
Only housing and activities fees due before the trip, by Dec. 1, 2008. Spring tuition due February 1, 2009.
Estimated airfare: ranges from $650-$850 (based on search conducted on Sept. 16, 2008). Flight search: Vayama, Kayak
Flight, Travel, and Visa Information
Flight: Students book their own travel to coincide with program dates.Steinhardt will assist with planning.
Passport: Valid passport required for US citizens. Please note that passport must have at least six months validation beyond the day of the intended entry into the country of travel.
Visa: A visa is not required for visits to the UK of less than six months in duration.
Helpful links: US State Department, UK Border Agency, Center for Disease Control, Lonely Planet Guide
Weather
In London, winter temperatures tend to be milder than in New York, usually in the 40s (Fahrenheit). There is occasional rain and very little chance of heavy snow.
For More Information
Academic Content: Carlo Lamagna, Department of Art and Art Professions, Education, 34 Stuyvesant Street, New York, NY 10003;(212) 998-9011, carlo.lamagna@nyu.eduProgram Administration: Office of Academic Initiatives and Global Programs, The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, 82 Washington Square East, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10003-6680; (212) 992-9380; steinhardt.global@nyu.edu