This course examines the complicated links between art and politics during the 20th century, a period typified by continuous political unrest and military conflicts. Examining case studies from varied regions of the world throughout the century, we ask what functions artists might occupy in times of war or turmoil, and what role the visual might have in expressing political opinions and promoting political ideas. Materials include fine arts, photography, and other forms of visual culture. Case studies might include the Russian Revolution, the First and Second World Wars; the American civil rights movement; Apartheid in South Africa; the fall of the Soviet Union; and the Cultural Revolution and June 4th demonstrations in China.