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.
Learn MoreWe 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.
Arts at Amherst
Together, Amherst’s dynamic arts programs foster a lively environment for the multidisciplinary study, creation and presentation of the arts.
Learn MoreArt & the History of Art Courses
Current Courses
ARHA 138
Visual Arts and Orature in Africa
Description
Explore new perspectives in the critical analysis of African verbal and visual arts, and examine the epistemological process of understanding cultural symbols, visualizing narratives, and verbalizing sculptures or designs.
ARHA 207
Talking with Beads
Description
This studio art course focused on complex global beading traditions, studying how the language of beadwork is used to tell stories, connect with ancestors, provide protection, create community, signify power, and challenge injustice.
ARHA 357
Persian Book of Kings
Description
This course will explore the Shahnameh as literature, history, and material culture—including illustrated manuscripts, printed books, ceramics, metalwork, and photography.
Arts & Activism: A Conversation Between Photographer Jess Dugan and Curator Mary Statzer
November 2, 2020
A conversation between photographer Jess Dugan and curator Mary Statzer. Dugan and Statzer's conversation ranged from whether art can help during difficult times, the artistic process, and the collaboration between artist and curator.
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Scenes from Art & the History of Art
