COR 3100 The Museum Collection: Material Culture & the Creation of Meaning
This seminar will introduce students to the practice of managing objects within a museum context including: collections development, accepted museum registration methods, cataloging, condition reporting, caring for the collection, and an exploration of ethical and philosophical concerns with museum collections. Once students have been familiarized with collections policy and practice, they will examine how, through the presentation of objects, museums can (and do) create meaning. Course readings will include sources specific to the care, presentation, and management of museum collections as well as material culture theory, art criticism, reflections on the power of interpretation, and the process of exhibiting “culture” and history.
Prerequisite
Open to students in the third or fourth year of study.
Course Types
Core Integrative Seminar
Notes
Students will be expected to participate in class discussion, work in small groups, and assist with peer review. Additionally, students will be required to complete a designated number of hours assisting either in the inventory of the Elon Art Collection or at an outside facility. This course is writing intensive.