This course will involve the critical analysis and production of works of art done
on a small scale. If art on the largest scale is inherently public in nature, what is
the nature of the miniature? The miniature has fulfilled many functions: images
of remembrance, the portrait of a beloved, devotional objects, art made as an
object of contemplation and wonder. The language of the miniature is intimate,
private, and bears the authority of understatement. Our involvement with many
works of art is likely to be distanced, in time and in space. Our involvement with
the miniature is close, highly personal, and frequent. Course assignments will
examine the inherent qualities of the work in miniature, and ask students to
create work to fulfill historically defined and innovative functions. The assigned
work can be executed in any medium in which the student has completed an
introductory course. Students will meet in pairs, together with the instructor, and
the students will present critical responses to the works in progress and upon
completion. Readings will be assigned to focus this critical analysis. In addition
to the production of miniatures, each student will research and deliver critical
presentations on related contemporary or historical works.
Format: tutorial. Evaluation will be based on the quality of the assigned work,
the engagement in the critique process, and quality of presentations.
Prerequisites: any ArtS 200-level course. Enrollment limit: 10 (expected: 10).
Preference given to Art majors.