Not offered 2007-2008
LATS 464 Latina/o Visual Culture: Histories, Identities, and Representation (W)*
This course examines the contemporary history of Latina/o visual culture and explores the various relations between cultural expression, identity formation, and public representation.
We will begin by considering the critical and aesthetic practices that emerged in the context
of civil rights actions and nationalist movements, which often focused on issues of visibility,
self-representation, and autonomy. The topics of immigration, transnationalism, and the
"Latinization" of the United States will then be analyzed in depth as we examine
representations of and representations by Latina/os in film and television, the visual arts,
advertising, and other forms of popular media. Throughout the course, we will investigate
the role of visual culture in determining taste and trends as well as shaping notions of
belonging and cultural citizenship.
Format: seminar. Evaluation will be based on class participation, a research presentation,
several short writing assignments (1-2 pages), and a final research paper.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 17 (expected: 17). Preference given to seniors and
juniors.
CHAVOYA