Globalization and Contemporary Art

3 units

What does globalization mean for contemporary art? And what do we even mean when we use the term? This upper-level seminar course considers recent art (1985-present) in the context of theories of development, postcolonialism, and globalization. We will focus on the tensions between the global and the local, as well what it means for an artist to be national or international. We will also consider the impact of neoliberal economic policies on art production and the art market, as well as role museums play in this international context. Finally, we will consider the Internet and social networks as globalizing influences that affect the production and distribution of contemporary art. Prerequisites: Introduction to Western Art or Introduction to Modern Art and one 300-level course in art history, or permission of the instructor.