This seminar will begin to articulate a history
of “Ecological Art,” art that aims to raise awareness about or
encourage action on issues of human relationships with nature & the
earth.  From multiple areas of specialization (for example:  modern,
American, contemporary, African, Folk art, Poster art, graphic
design, and even video), we will examine artists and art movements
that explore issues we now recognize as pertinent to modern
ecological movements and concerns.
Seminar participants will select specific topics from their own
areas of interest and begin research.  As the semester progresses we
will discuss the issues and problems that arise from this research,
and consider how to create a web site that effectively presents
everyone’s research findings.  Research papers can be submitted in
the form of text & image PowerPoint presentations.

Why Offer This Class?
These days it is more important than ever before to assert the
relevance of the arts and humanities.  Too often practical value and
credibility are assigned to the sciences and professional schools,
while arts and humanities are viewed JUST as cultural enrichment and
entertainment.  Far too many people do not take art (and art
history) seriously as enterprises that examine key issues in
people’s lives and critically explore the ways individuals and
societies fit into the world.  Let’s put teeth in art history and
help give art back its clout.

Possible Areas of interest include:
earth works
art that explores nature’s diversity or complexity
Architecture that is environment-friendly
art that promotes recycling
Landscape as awareness (even Christo ?)
Art exploring concepts of “Conquering Nature”
Art attacking waste
Art that explores the value of nature
art that critiques the industrial revolution, pollution,
or the destruction of the environment