Course Description
Investigation of both historic and modern materials and methods used to produce works of art and archaeological-ethnographic objects. Aspects of deterioration, historic treatment, museum conservation practice, and methods of technical examination are highlighted.
Athena Title
Materials Techniques Artworks
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course offers a critical introduction to the historic and modern materials and methods used to produce works of art and archaeological-ethnographic objects. Students learn how to examine artworks and understand them at the technical and material levels through lectures, direct object-oriented study at the Georgia Museum of Art, and studio demonstrations of artistic processes at the Lamar Dodd School of Art. The ethics and philosophical parameters of art and cultural heritage regarding authenticity, patrimony, and materiality are emphasized and critical methodological issues, recent important research, and on-going debates are highlighted. Students demonstrate their skills in two written examinations covering the lectures, class discussion, and assigned readings.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction: Approaching the Materials and Techniques of Artworks II. Subtractive Carving and Finishing: Marble, Limestone, and Wood III. Metalworking: Origins and Art IV. Bronze: Direct and Indirect Casting V. Luxury Media: Precious Metals, Stones, and the “Minor Arts” VI. Ceramics: Forming, Throwing, and Firing VII. Painting I. Historic: Tempera, Fresco, Panel, and Canvas VIII. Painting II. Modern and Contemporary: Art and Industry IX. Works on Paper and Printmaking X. Ethnographic Objects: Materials, Culture, and Ethics XI. Modern and Contemporary Art: Change and Artist’s Intent XII. Art Conservation: Historical Foundations and Formation XIII. The Role of Science: Imaging, Analysis, and Dating Techniques XIV. Authenticity and Materiality in Art XV. The Future of the Past and the Field of Conservation