Teaching Philosophy

I am interested in a contextual approach to art history and regard works of art not as autonomous artifacts but
 rather as objects firmly embedded within a larger context of artistic, cultural, intellectual, social, political, 
economic and historic circumstance. These same factors, of course, also influence the reception and 
interpretation of works of art, so that no reading can ever be considered final, but rather presents only one 
possible explanation. These ideas and convictions have guided my own work and have also structured the 
courses I have taught.

My objective is to introduce students to the broader context in which art is created and seen. Therefore, we 
look not only at works of art, but also examine artists' stated intentions, contemporary commentaries and 
critical reception of the work, and consult recent scholarship. I encourage students to develop a critical 
approach to art and art historical literature by exposing them to varied sources and interpretations of art. My 
ultimate goal as a teacher is to provide my students with the historical background and the critical ability to 
become members of an actively engaged art public.

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