Contemporary Native Arts

In this course we will examine contemporary art practices by Native American artists who explore kinship relationships to nature, land, and environment. In this course we will study new approaches to creative innovation and object-making in preparation for an exhibition opening at Middlebury in 2027. Students will be introduced to works of art by contemporary Native artists including Akwesasne Mohawk sculptor Margaret Jacobs. Assignments acquaint students with foundational drawing and basic sculptural techniques to get a better understanding of the volumetric qualities. Written responses to works of art encourage discussion about how to expand art discourse. Developing installation designs will broaden an understanding of how objects are displayed in museums. The course will include trips to study local collections.