Theorizing Art in Qatar

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

In this course, we will study a range of art forms that are available in Doha through prominent critical approaches to art history and theory. As an emergent global hub of arts and creative industries, Doha hosts a rich collection of materials created by artists from the Middle East, Indian Ocean world, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. As such, theorizing art in Doha will enable us to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the themes and methods of studying a diverse array of traditional, Islamic, Orientalist, modern, public, contemporary, and digital forms. In sum, we will aim to achieve two mutually supportive goals: (1) to offer an art history and theory course through the art works and forms available in Doha; (2) to theorize and historicize the available art works and forms in larger aesthetic and cultural contexts. Students enrolled in this course must be prepared to participate in field trips and classes that will take place in Qatar Museums.