Vernacular Arts: Outsider, Folk, Eccentric, and Other Arts of the Edge

AH 865

This graduate seminar will critically analyze the broad array of arts "of the edge," i.e. those that has been categorized as outside the bounds of canonical art and fine design. It will essentially critique the categories of outsider art, folk art, ethnic art, decorative arts-indeed other "hyphenated" or "qualified" arts. It will ask core questions about a basic human wish for artistic expression, particularly in domestic and outdoor private spaces. It will particularly juxtapose outsider arts of Wisconsin and the American South and examine special cases of artistic spirituality and eccentricity. Several field trips will be required to travel to see vernacular wonders as well as intensive reading, discussion, research and writing. Graduate students from multiple specializations within art history, history of design, arts and the larger humanities are encouraged to enroll.