Description
[Modern or Contemporary] This course will explore the concept of rebellion in art from the late 19th century to the present. Focusing on political upheaval, gender identity, race, and economic circumstances, we will examine how modern and contemporary art has variously challenged prevailing ideologies, interrogated established conventions and norms, and offered alternative interpretations of social and cultural frameworks. Rebellion can be traced to artistic movements, such as Dada and Surrealism, artists who subvert, question, and break traditional artistic norms and trends. Revolution can be manifested as political disobedience, such as anti-fascist protests and political imagery. Cultural and social interventions by feminist and queer artists and movements demonstrate how artists have interrogated the patriarchy, the male gaze, and the biases of institutionalization. Artists who focus on themes of slavery, colonialism, and systemic racism critique race and representation in important ways. Moving thematically, students will recognize rebellion to be a strategy in modern and contemporary art. Critical readings, class discussion, and independent research culminating in a substantive research paper on a topic of their choosing will help students develop the necessary tools for interpreting art as a form of social action.