The world we live in today is full of ideas, beliefs, and social systems that are distinctly modern. But what is “modernity”? How did we get here? And why is modernity disintegrating today? This course examines art’s role in the rise and spread of modernity, from its 18th-century origins in western civilization to its global predominance today. We will study art in relation to multiple aspects of modernity – including philosophy, economics, politics, psychology, science, technology, and media – and explore how art has supported, facilitated, resisted, and critiqued these systems of thought and behavior. While focusing on western art, the course draws links with modern art in Asia and helps illuminate contemporary modes of visual communication that now permeate the globe. Students will discover a rich range of remarkable artworks in a variety of media; develop proficiency in visual analysis and interpretation; and gain a broad historical understanding of modernity and modern art. Issues related to gender, race, class, and sexual orientation are discussed throughout the course.

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