Art

Seminar Description

From the time that the first public museums were established centuries ago, they have often been intended to be seen as works of art in themselves. In many instances, the function and purpose of these buildings have evolved, leading to renovation, reinvention, and even demolition. Through a set of case studies dating from the Renaissance to the present, the course examines different architectural settings and design strategies for museum buildings and displays. At the same time, we will also be exploring the cultural, social, intellectual, pedagogical, economic, and inspirational value of museums from different periods of time and across the globe. Throughout all of our investigations, the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center will provide a concrete example of how long-established values and practices related to collections, audiences, and resources are currently being debated and reconsidered.