Visual Culture and the California Environment
This course examines historical and contemporary visual representations of the natural world and resources in art and science through a political, economic and social lens. We will draw upon theory and practices from art, science, geography and landscape studies to critically analyze how artists, scientists, corporations, government agencies, activists, and local inhabitants use environmental imagery for diverse purposes with sometimes conflicting interests. Each term will center on a specific theme related to California and climate change, for example, water or energy. The course includes projects, lectures, readings, discussions and a 2-day field trip. Students will learn to think critically while developing creative, culturally complex approaches to observing, recording, and representing the natural world.