Graduate Courses
Art Theory and Criticism
Art 681 — Fall 2017-18
This course examines a spectrum of texts that contribute to understandings of art, various practices, and genres. We consider how both critics and artists are vital for thinking about art, and consider the relationship between theories and criticism.
Writing for Artists
Art 685 — Spring 2016-Present
This innovative course examines writing in two ways: we focus on varieties of art writing for originality of thought or clarity of expression. Then we will practice writing in different genres including the review, interview, and artists’s statement. Helpful for professional development.
Western Art Theory and Criticism: From the Mid-20th Century to the Present
Art 550/450 — Spring 2019 – Present
This course offers a broad range of ideas about of art spanning the 20th and 21st centuries. We consider a range of concepts and perspectives about art while looking closely at the relationship between theory and criticism.
Undergraduate Courses
Critical and Creative Thinking About Art and its Recent History
Art History 101 — Fall 2012-Present
This course familiarizes you with theories and ideas proposed by artists and commentators since 1960. We focus on developing critical thinking about art in ways that extend to contemporary visual culture as a whole.
Lives of Iconic Artists in the Popular Imagination in Art History and Film
Art History 138 — Spring 2016-Present
This course introduces the prominent theories and ideas proposed by artists, critics, and historians since 1870. We look at major figures and archetypes from both pop culture and scholarly perspectives.
Art of the 20th and 21st Centuries in Europe and the Americas (1900 to Present)
Art History 334 — 2015-Present
This course familiarizes you with prominent artists, movements and theories of art in Europe and the Americas from 1900-Present. We will consider different approaches to understanding and interpreting art by expanding our awareness of the ways art historians and critics have written about them.
Robert L. Pincus 