ARH 141: Intro to the History of Modern Art of the 19th & 20th Centuries in Europe and the U.S.
Professor Jess Bal (she/her): [email protected] (or [email protected])
Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 12:10 pm
Lehman College, Fine Arts Building, Room 021
Office Hours: After class and on Zoom (http://calendly.com/jessicabal/office-hours)
Course Description
What’s the meaning of a splatter painting? How come so many people are obsessed with Monet and Van Gogh? Why would anyone want to paint a soup can over and over again? We’ll explore these questions and much more over the course of the semester. This class will chart the history of modern art in the 19th and 20th centuries in Europe and the United States in an unconventional way. In each session, we’ll examine several artworks organized around a larger theme, and draw out connections and distinctions between various artistic approaches and philosophies of this period. Together we will explore the methods of art history and formal analysis, think critically about art museums and institutions, and try to make sense of two dynamic centuries of art.
Learning Goals
In this class, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Look closely at and deeply analyze a variety of artworks
- Identify differences and connections between artistic approaches
- Understand art in the context of larger political, economic, and social events
- Research and become an expert on one artwork
- Practice writing about and responding to art in multiple ways
- Visit a museum and reflect on the experience
- Collaboratively create your own art movement and manifesto
My Approach
Whether you go on to be an art historian or never take another art history course after this one, I want this class to sharpen the way you think about art and enable you to look at and talk about it more critically and thoughtfully. Art informs popular culture and tells us a lot about other things (politics, religion, power, etc.) Many of the art pieces we’ll study together are complicated, and even problematic, so there is plenty to take issue with (and I hope you do!) Many art history courses are organized chronologically and by “period.” I’ve arranged this course by broader themes instead, hoping it will encourage seeing connections between different artworks and approaches. We will also place them on a timeline and geographically as we go, but I want us to challenge the idea of art history being linear. I care most about your growth in this space, whatever that looks like for you. I’m also enthusiastic about communication – come to office hours, ask for clarification on something, tell me your hot takes. The earlier I know about issues you are experiencing in class, the easier it is for us to figure it out together.
Community Agreements
- YOUR GUIDELINES LINKED HERE
- My guidelines and tips:
- Be present. Show up on time and ready to engage with the class.
- Be curious. Be brave, speak up, ask questions, and take risks. Be open to learning new perspectives and skills.
- Be respectful. Listen deeply to your classmates and others. Respect your own work as well; give coursework adequate time and energy.
- Be in touch. Check your email for updates, and reach out when you need help. Let me know if you are having trouble so we can work it out.
Course Materials
This is a ZTC/OER (Zero Textbook Cost/Open Educational Resource) course, meaning there is no textbook you need to purchase for this class. All readings, videos, or other media will be provided here for free, either because they are in the public domain, available online through the publisher/creator at no cost, or they are accessible to you through your university library.
Academic Integrity
TLDR: Don’t steal or copy work that isn’t yours (online, from a textbook, using AI, from other students, etc.) The university guidelines regarding plagiarism can be found here; plagiarism can result in failing the assignment, the class, or even disciplinary action. If any guidelines feel unclear or you’re not sure if something is okay, please don’t be afraid to ask. If you are struggling with an assignment, let’s work through it; I want you to succeed. My stance in this class is that we do not use AI. I don’t expect anything close to perfection in your writing, but I do want you to exercise your brain and think for yourself (you are way more interesting than a chatbot, seriously!) AI technologies are also increasingly draining our planet of resources and consolidating money and power among a few tech companies and billionaires—it’s worth considering whether these tools are really supporting us (you, me, and most people) and our environment. If you do use these tools on an assignment, you will not receive credit for the assignment.
Accommodations
Lehman College is committed to providing access to all programs and curricula to all students. Students with disabilities who may need classroom accommodations are required to register with the Office of Student Disability Services. For information, please contact the Office of Student Disability Services, Shuster Hall, Room 238; phone 718-960-8441.
COVID/Sick Policy
As we continue to deal with COVID cases and other seasonal illnesses, please take care of yourself and your health, first and foremost. Masks will not be required for class at this time (subject to change as needed) but you are always welcome to wear one for any reason. You are encouraged to wear a mask if you are feeling under the weather to prevent the spread of illness to others. If you are feeling seriously ill or if you suspect you may have COVID, please take precautions and stay home instead of coming to class. Send me a note and let me know — I want you to be well and safe!
