Art Architecture and Public Spaces

Undergraduate

This course examines the interrelationship between art, architecture, and the concept of public space. Art historical and design conventions inform our preconceptions about the role of public spaces and the presumed openness of democracy. The course reconsiders the meaning of these concepts in the contemporary world focusing on examples of art, architecture and city planning found in monuments, urban parks, gardens, buildings, plazas and city squares. In re-examining our built environments, the course asks: who is included and excluded in the classical ideals of public space? How do these concepts reflect power, settlement and colonization patterns? And how might these spaces be reconsidered as monuments around the globe are removed as painful reminders of colonial violence? Decolonial, feminist and ecological approaches to public space that challenge western conventions are an important focus for course discussion. We will look at solutions proposed through art and architecture to address issues of social and environmental justice. Through research, observational site visits, note- taking, sketching, and photography students will assess the uses of existing civic spaces and community sites. Final assignments will be well researched proposals or temporary site projects that serve to re- imagine or transform existing sites to address the social and ecological challenges we face. Open to majors and non-majors ( This is an experiential learning course.)