ARTH 692 - Critiquing the Museum (3 credits)

(Prereq: Admission to the MALS Program) Course critically evaluates the institution of the museum. What functions do museums serve? What relationship do they have with communities? Are their priorities to preserve, conserve, display, educate, or something else? What is the relationship between money and art in the context of a museum? Who are their audiences? What role does the physical space play in determining audience reception? What role does a museum play in determining social values? Do museums have an ethical responsibility to society? Depending on when it is offered, this course may sometimes include travel to museums in cities within the United States or abroad. S, SU