art department helpful advice

1. All works of art were made by artists who lived in specific times and real places. Students whose high school background does not include a thorough preparation in history should take relevant History courses. All prospective Art majors should look through the catalogue carefully for other history courses relevant to their particular interests, and should look also for courses in the religion, literature, music, and philosophy of the times and places which particularly interest them. Try to re- integrate the art you study into the world in which it was made.

2. By the same reasoning, studio majors are encouraged to take as many art history courses as possible to give a broad context for their own work. Courses especially recommended are those that deal with late 19th and 20th century developments.

3. Foreign languages are necessary for the study of Art History. Scholarly books and articles are rarely translated into English, and art historians need to travel abroad. In general, for Western art, the most important languages are German, French, and Italian; for Asian art, Chinese, and/or Japanese are necessary. Anyone considering graduate work in Art History should bear in mind that most ad- vanced degree programs require students to pass language exams and should begin to prepare for these while still at Wellesley.

4. The Studio requirement for Art History majors should be taken early, in the first, sophomore, or junior years, since 100-level studio courses are not open to seniors without special permission.

5. All art history majors are encouraged to take ARTH 345 Seminar: Methods of Art History in their junior or senior years, especially those considering graduate school.

6. Art Conservation is a career choice for both Studio and History majors that combines art and sci- ence equally. Anyone interested in such a career should consult the department chair about the re- quirements for admission to conservation programs. These include college-level chemistry through organic, and an extensive Studio portfolio, as well as a background in history of art.

7. All majors are urged to take their foundation courses as early as possible in their careers, especially if they plan to go abroad, or choose a thesis project. 100 level courses should be completed in the first two years whenever possible.

8. Teacher Certification. Students interested in obtaining certification to teach Art in the Common- wealth of Massachusetts should consult the Director of Studio Art and the Chair of the Department of Education.

9. Architecture majors are strongly advised to complete an introductory studio course at Wellesley before enrolling in design studios at MIT in the sophomore year.

10. Art History majors should bear in mind that studio art courses are not open to seniors except by permission of the instructor and/or application.

 

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