This advanced seminar analyzes the collection and display history of Africa and its art through a post-colonial lens. Interrogating claims of ownership of cultural patrimony this course considers various modes of collection among missionaries, colonial authorities, tourists, and others. Focusing primarily on the art of sub-Saharan Africa, this course begins with a consideration of the Wests early encounters with Africa, and the systematic collection and display of Africas resources. The course then shifts to the consideration of western artists investments in African art and the roles museums-both in Africa and throughout the West-play in the postmodern world. [D, PPRE]
- Teacher: Kara Morrow