Art as a Social Language

INSTRUCTOR: John Bailly

SECTION: U02

SCHEDULE: Wednesday, 10:00 AM-3:45 PM

This course is structured around the idea that visual art holds a vital role in the social and cultural dialogue surrounding controversial issues. It investigates how artists have challenged or enforced authority by creating new aesthetics. It further explores how art is used to initiate, accelerate, or prevent social change. The heart of the course is the Aesthetics & Values Research and Exhibition Project. This provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their resourcefulness and creativity through the research, curation, and organization of an on-campus exhibition of contemporary Miami artists. After forming committees, students are responsible for coordinating all aspects of the exhibition, including selecting artists, negotiating gallery space, working with university administration, and managing local media. Students also produce a thorough research paper on their chosen artists.