Art History Minor

An Art History Minor provides a solid understanding of works of art in context, helping you to communicate knowledge in a way that is inclusive of diverse learning styles. Learning by observing art turns abstract concepts into concrete experiences and knowledge.

In art history, you interpret works of art as cultural documents. This evidence enriches your interpretation of historical events and provides a concrete connection to the history of human culture. These skills are especially valuable for scholars exploring cultures in which artifacts, architecture, and other forms of visual culture are a substantial part of the surviving historical record.

A global knowledge of art will further immerse you in foreign cultures that speak and write languages other than English. If your level permits it, you may gain additional practice in languages by reading art-related texts in their original language. A knowledge of art in context will also enable you to better understand the unique characteristics of the cultures associated with the languages you study.

Studying art history will help you investigate the complex reasons why humans seek to express emotion and overcome trauma through art. If you study societies, knowing how humans use art to communicate, to share knowledge and preserve memory, and to protest injustice will give you a broader and deeper understanding of these social practices.

A wider and deeper knowledge of art history will expand your understanding of artists' styles and techniques, both traditional and digital. You will see yourself as part of an artistic community and connect your own artistic choices and influences with those of the past and the present.

Taking art history courses will help you write more clearly. Art historical writing is always concrete and will hone your argumentative skills. You will learn to present facts and conclusions with clarity and solid statements. If you are a journalism major, reporting on art events and interviewing artists will give you opportunities to practice your communication skills.

Knowledge of art will enrich your understanding of literary texts, as these works often support and enrich art historical interpretations. The literary genre of historical fiction often relies on art and art history to construct a fictional story. When you write, you will be able to tap into your art historical knowledge to craft your characters and build a compelling story.

Developing skills in the analysis of two-dimensional images will increase awareness of how these images communicate meaning. Filmmakers with a solid footing in visual analysis have a broader and deeper understanding of how audiences respond to moving images.

You will benefit from understanding how and why the art market is volatile, and how, for centuries, forms of institutional and private art patronage have contributed to economic development in communities, cities, regions, and countries. From fostering tourism to developing merchandise, from inspiring impressive projects to leading social change, art is a cultural phenomenon inseparably linked to fundraising, money making, and spending.