Information and Culture: Art and Cultural Policy

Examines public and private policies and arrangements that impact arts and cultural production and engagement. Examples of topics include: rationales for/against public support; factors promoting arts and cultural engagement; arts policy and communities; arts engagement and other forms of civic engagement. Attention will be given to the implications of new technologies, legal regulations, and international relations. The course focus is primarily on the United States, but comparisons to other countries will also be considered. Relevant to students interested in relationships between arts and cultural institutions, artists, and their wider community and public contexts. Practical applications are explored through exercises and assignments analyzing specific policies and audience engagement strategies. Guest speakers will periodically join us to share their experiences.