In the field of World Art Studies we distinguish between three overall themes when approaching art from a global perspective: 1. the origins of art; 2. intercultural comparison; 3. processes of interculturalization. In this seminar, we focus on intercultural comparison in art practices, as well as on cross-cultural exchange, taking as our subject matter the portrait in (contemporary) art in all its variety, forms and shapes. Portraiture occupies a central position in the mimetic culture of the West, but recent studies on such issues as the understanding of the human subject and representation have shed new light on this genre. Also, portrait-making is not exclusively a ‘Western thing’, as many examples from non-Euroamerican cultures show. In this seminar we will examine portraiture as representation and as articulation of changing concepts of identity, and discuss its various uses (social, political, etc.) in a variety of cultural contexts.
Timetable
Timetable 2008-2009
Method of Instruction
Seminar meetings
Course objectives
Gaining insight into the complexity of intercultural comparison and exchange, the questions posed and the theoretical frames of reference required.; participating in scholarly discourse and exchange; enhance presentation and debating skills.
Required reading
Kitty Zijlmans and Wilfried van Damme (eds), World Art Studies: Exploring Concepts and Approaches, Amsterdam: Valiz, 2008
Joanne Woodall (ed.), Portraiture: Facing the Subject, Manchester, New York: Manchester University Press, 1997
Jean M. Borgatti, Richard Brilliant, Likeness and Beyond. Portraits from Africa and the World, New York: The Center for African Art, 1990 (exhib. cat.)
Examination
Presentation and paper (5000 words)
Information
The program will list the topics to be dealt with in each session, as well as the required readings. Assignments are given to students. Students will give presentations and will actively participate in discussions and intellectual exchanges. w.van.damme@hum.leidenuniv.nl
c.j.m.zijlmans@hum.leidenuniv.nl