ARTH 599: Special Topics in Art History

ARTH 599-002: Originals, Imitations, Fakes: Rethinking Authorship in Art
(Fall 2012)

04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R

Research Hall 201

Section Information for Fall 2012

Art history textbooks, museum displays and results of art auctions attribute cultural and monetary values to “original” works of art. A closer examination of the theory and practice of art-making suggests, however, that deciding what qualifies as an autograph work can be a complicated matter. This course explores how the definitions of “authenticity” and “authorship” have shifted over time. We will consider how traditional practices in artists’ workshops influence our understanding of “personal styles.” We will also analyze historical treatises and ask how patrons and collectors in different periods regarded copies and imitations. We will examine various forms of appropriation—e.g., copying, emulation, quotation, parody—and how they relate to the functions of works of art. Case studies will be drawn from different periods in the history of Western art. This seminar-style course will be offered as ARTH 440 and 599. Taking the course on the graduate level will require extra work but all students will be expected to fully participate in discussions. Reading and writing assignments, in-class discussions and presentations will help students develop skills in visual analysis, critical reading and art historical research. This course fulfills ARTH graduate elective.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 1-6

Topics vary. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: Baccalaureate degree or permission of instructor.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lec/Sem #1, Lec/Sem #2, Lec/Sem #3, Lec/Sem #4, Lec/Sem #5, Lec/Sem #6, Lec/Sem #7, Lec/Sem #8, Lec/Sem #9, Sem/Lec #10, Sem/Lec #11, Sem/Lec #12, Sem/Lec #13, Sem/Lec #14, Sem/Lec #15, Sem/Lec #16, Sem/Lec #17, Sem/Lec #18, Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.