FALL 2014: TO HAVE AND HAVE NOT- ART AND PRIVILEGE IN NEW YORK CITY

CLASS #1 (9/8):

• Introduction and Discussion of the Syllabus. Discussion of performances and assignments, and proper etiquette for performances. Review of the experiences at the Museum Night. We will discuss what terms like “privilege” and “class” mean in the context of art and media.
  • Assignments for next class:

1. READINGS:
   • What is Theater? Reading: handout from class
2. EXHIBIT:
   • Museum Night- Wednesday 9/3
3. FILMS:
   • Wall Street (Stone, 1987)
4. BLOGS:
   • BLOG #1 (Due Sunday 9/14 by 12am): The word “Art” can have a loaded connotation. Define what “Art” means to you. What role do institutions like the Brooklyn Museum play in determining what is “Art”? Use specific examples and evidence to support your view.

CLASS #2 (9/15):

• We will discuss how to meaningfully evaluate a live performance, and the role the media plays in evaluating theater. Discussion of the film and reading. What do the terms “uptown” and “downtown” mean? How do artists portray these communities?
  • Assignments for next class:
    1. READINGS:
       • God of Carnage by Yasmina Reza
    2. FILM:
       • Taxi Driver (Scorsese, 1979)
    3. EXHIBIT:
       • Visit the NYC Highline
    4. BLOGS:
       • BLOG #2: The films and plays you viewed so far offer a stark definition of class. What role do artists play in reinforcing or breaking down class structures?