This class explores curatorial thinking through the process of compiling a Top Ten, a media staple that invites cultural producers to discuss ten things they like or recommend. Creating a Top Ten, like curating, involves making selections within parameters including (but not limited to) history, context, aesthetics, politics, style and preference. A good Top Ten is a cohesive presentation of a person’s singular point of view, an aggregation of elements that traverse medium and genre yet cohere as a group. In approaching the Top Ten format, students start by considering their own interests and what connects them. A sequence of readings, lecture-driven discussions, peer workshops and research-driven writing and presentation assignments leads them to expand and refine their pool of choices as they explore new ideas. Areas of research can range from pop culture to art history, from the College campus to the local Goodwill, from fashion and cinema to social media and YouTube. As themes emerge and potential choices multiply, students think critically to eliminate as well as select as they hone perspective to “curate” a personal Top Ten as their final project.
Learning Outcomes:
_gain understanding of “style” as both a cultural concept and personal philosophy
_learn to think deeply and critically about personal interests and preferences
_investigate the Top Ten format as an entrée to curatorial thinking
_have serious fun exchanging information and recommendations with peers to
explore and widen your sphere of interests
_discover new reference points, from a range of media and cultural arenas, for your
activities outside the class
_learn to edit your ideas to create a grouping that expresses variety yet is also
coherent
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 2
M/Th 1:40PM - 3:30PM (1st seven weeks)
Maximum Enrollment: 18
Course Frequency: Every 2-3 years
Categories: 2000 , All courses , Course Code Update , Curatorial Studies , First Seven Week , Fully In-Person , Two Credit , Updates , Visual Arts (VA)
Tags: