Art History III Courses Observe Spectacle

The Contemporary Arts Center in downtown Cincinnati was a recent destination for individuals currently enrolled in UCBA Art History III classes. Students were asked to view an exhibition entitled Spectacle: The Music Video as part of a written assignment.

"I believe the study of art allows the opportunity for fruitful community engagement," said Lauren Tate, professor of Art History III courses.

"Since a surprising number of students who take introductory-level art history courses have never been to a museum and have little or no experience looking at art in a formal setting, I encourage this by including visits to local museums and galleries as part of class curriculum."

This quarter, Art History III is focusing on the major stylistic and artistic movements in Western art from the Baroque period through modern time. Visiting the museum gave students the opportunity to personally observe the pieces of artists working today.

"I was really excited to go to the Contemporary Arts Center. I went once before a couple of years ago and I thought that the artwork was very interesting, unique, and fun," said Mark Eilers, a student taking the course.

Although students were encouraged to explore the various pieces displayed at the center, Spectacle: The Music Video was the focus of the assignment. "The current exhibit, Spectacle: The Music Video, encourages visitors to look at an aspect of popular culture from a different perspective," said Tate. "And it is my hope that viewing the exhibit will persuade students to think critically about other aspects of contemporary visual culture."

The exhibition, curated by Jonathan Wells and Meg Grey Wells of Flux, emphasizes music video as a key component of contemporary culture.

As stated on the Contemporary Arts Center's official web site, "This is the first time a contemporary art museum has examined the music video format through a diverse exhibition - employing immersive environments, photography, video screenings, objects and interactive installations."