ARTH 508(S) Art and Conservation: An Inquiry into History, Methods, and Materials
This course is designed to acquaint students with observation and examination techniques for works of art, artifacts, and decorative arts objects; give them an understanding of the history of artist materials and methods; and familiarize them with the ethics and procedures of conservation. This is not a conservation training course but is structured to provide a broader awareness for those who are planning careers involving work with cultural objects. Class format will include slide presentations, lectures, gallery talks, hands-on opportunities, technical examinations, and group discussions. Sessions will be held at the Williamstown Art Conservation Center, Williams College, the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, and the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Art Collection in Albany. Examination questions may be formulated from exhibitions at these locations. Six exams will be given. Exams scores will be weighed in proportion to the number of sessions covered by the exam (e.g., the paintings exam, derived from six sessions of the course, will count as 25% of the final grade). There is no overall final exam. Some exams may be designated "open book"; however, all work should be a student's individual effort.
Hour: Staff of Williamstown Art Conservation Center