Addressing Inequity through Art and Design

Catalog description

This course explores issues related to systemic inequality through the lens of art and design. We will closely observe and discuss works by contemporary artists who critique social inequity through painting, sculpture, video, and site-specific installation. Students will explore works by some of today’s more important and impactful U.S. artists such as Kehinde Wiley, Kara Walker and others. Each week, the course will connect these contemporary artworks with artifacts of the past to visualize processes that created and continue to support systemic inequality. Weekly content is organized around key themes related to forms of inequity and inequality, including but not limited to: • Representation and power • The legacy of slavery • Immigration and the legacy of colonialism • Cultural appropriation • Indigeneity • Environmental and housing discrimination • Mass incarceration Our study is developed for students of diverse educational backgrounds and does not require specialized knowledge of art terminology. Key terms and explanation of art and design processes will be included in our study. Each weekly theme will incorporate an instructor-led video lecture, readings, videos, and podcasts. Optional weekly office hours will also be available.