What is community art? How is it different from socially engaged art, street art, and participatory art? What are the goals of these forms of engagement? For whom are they created? What and whose values, and ethical principles must I consider, and what do I need to know before designing a community project? A fundamental aspiration of the course is grounded in the belief that art can facilitate positive social change and enhance community well being. Whether you are curious about or already convinced of this claim, the course will provide you with the tools to clarify assumptions about community art and social engagement practices, and recognize the various historical contexts at the root of artistic and engagement practices in the US and abroad since the 1960s. Through discussions, guest lectures, written reflections, and fieldwork, you will have the opportunity to develop the cultural competency necessary to examine and clarify your own worldviews and beliefs, as you take part in diverse community activities in the city and region. As final project, you will be able to demonstrate the refinement of your newly developed concepts and experience by conducting the necessary research to complete the presentation of an execution-ready community-based project proposal designed in collaboration with members of a community and peers. 2 cr

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the Student Link for the most up-to-date course information.