VA 321 — Methods and Meanings in the Visual Arts
3 credits; 3 lecture hours
For students majoring in Art History and Museum Professions, this course provides a foundation in visual analysis and a historical overview of museums, exhibitions, and art history. Writing skills relevant to art commentary and gallery management are emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): HA 112.
VA 431 — The Business of Art Museum Management
3 credits; 3 lecture hours
Students build a firm knowledge of the business of managing an art museum, namely, how to achieve the institution's mission for the benefit of its diverse constituents. Students complete a group project covering the broad array of support activities that must be considered for the presentation of an exhibition.
Prerequisite(s): VA 321.
VA 491 — Senior Seminar: The Museum Exhibition
3 credits; 3 lecture hours
Using a major current exhibition as a case study, students examine the entire process of creating an exhibition. Through readings, field trips, and presentations by art professionals, students track the trajectory of an exhibition, from its original concept to its final, realized form, and gauge the subsequent critical response.
Prerequisite(s): VA 431.