Introduction to Museum and Curatorial Studies

Catalog description

Museums, collections, and exhibition spaces: why do we have them and what are their functions in society? What sort of institutions fall under the definition of a museum? What does it mean to work in a museum, a gallery, a private collection, or to serve in a curatorial role? This class will explore the history of museums and exhibition spaces and current debates about these institutions, including mission and vision statements, roles and organizational structure, architecture and facilities management, and legal and ethical issues. Lectures, readings, and assignments will encompass interdisciplinary ideas and establish for students the capabilities required of a curatorial professional—from the practical skills needed to operate a museum or gallery to theories on the societal role of museums and other exhibition spaces. Students will learn through lecture, discussion, in-class activities, reading, writing assignments, museum visits, and guest speakers. Prerequisite: None.