HAA 278K - On line: Drawing Then and Now

Ewa Lajer-Burcharth

This seminar seeks to reassess the role of drawing in modern artistic culture. We will follow the trope of line, the most basic drawing mark, not to construct a linear history of the medium, but to provide a selective account of its uses, purposes, and functions as an instrument of modernity--or, as the case may be, of anti- modernity. Focusing on the period spanning the eighteenth century to the present, we will approach drawing not as a monolithic entity, but as a heterogenous phenomenon. We will consider it as a medium, a practice, an object, and a concept, and explore its interaction with, and cross-pollination by, other mediums and practices, (e.g., prints, photography; dance). We will discuss diverse approaches to draftsmanship–e. g., chronometric, kinetic, embodied, sculptural, automatic, blinded, black–and different modes of practice, (studio vs. urban drawing), and acquaint ourselves with procedures, techniques and materials by using them ourselves. We will also participate in a life drawing class in order to get a better sense of what the practice entails and what it makes possible.

Convened in the Harvard Art Museums study room, the seminars will offer students a hands-on experience of the works of art combined with the discussion of the assigned readings. In an effort to assess as well as reimagine the role of drawing, students will be encouraged to experiment with the format of their final project: aside from the classic research paper, annotated drawing series, an exhibition project, a film, a podcast and other inventive modes of presenting an argument will be welcome. (Enrollment limited.)