HAA 277P - The Art of Refuge

Robin Kelsey

This course explores art history through the idea of refuge, with particular emphasis on imaginative or contemplative means of freeing oneself temporarily from unhappy circumstances. Two related doubts inform the course: that the refuge today is an endangered resource, and that our electronic devices are more refuge-seeming than refuge-serving. The course will aim at developing a stronger theorization of the refuge than presently exists and putting that theorization into dialogue with the history of art. Cognate concepts such as sanctuary, retreat, haven, escape, and heterotopia will figure prominently.