The Major
The art and the history of art major is organized into two distinct programs: The History of Art and The Practice of Art.
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We offer introductory to advanced courses in art history and studio practice that enable our students to develop artistic awareness, historical understanding, critical faculties and practice in the visual arts.
Department Highlights
Eli Marsh Gallery
Our gallery displays a variety of student and visiting artist exhibitions throughout the academic year.
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Artist Studios
Our students share large, light-filled studio spaces for painting, printmaking, sculpting, photography, video and design.
Sculpture
After Amherst
Amherst art majors have gone on to careers as artists, scholars, architects, educators, conservators, preservationists, curators and more.
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Arts at Amherst
Together, Amherst’s arts programs host more than 300 events in the performing, literary and visual arts each year.
Learn MoreArt & the History of Art Courses
Current Courses
ARHA 138
Visual Arts and Orature in Africa
Description
Interpret and critically analyze the arts of the Yoruba people of West Africa. In such traditionally non-literate African societies, verbal and visual arts constitute two complex systems of communication.
ARHA 254
Art’s World Since 1989
Description
Examine art produced since 1989, paying particular attention to the international network comprising artists, curators, institutions and the art market.
ARHA 385
Witches, Vampires and Other Monsters
Description
Explore construction of the monstrous over cultures, centuries and disciplines. Investigate various monstrous creatures and the qualities they share, through the art of Goya, Munch, Picasso, Dalí, Cindy Sherman and others.
Art & Art History Prizes
The department sponsors three prizes: The Athanasios Demetrios Skouras Prize, The Hasse Prize and The Anna Baker Heap Prize.