Sculpture 664a, Primary Sources (or From the Horse’s Mouth)
Primary sources are the bedrock of historical research. Letters, diary entries, or interviews written during the time under study offer a direct connection to the past by offering first hand information written or spoken by those present at the time. As in any report, subjective interpretation, memory lapse, prejudices, etc. can muddle the record: fiction becomes fact, facts become truth, and the truth becomes historical record. The artist interview is by definition a primary source. It offers insight into the practice of an artist and a snapshot of the artist’s era and is very valuable for those looking to deepen their understanding of art and practice. An interview is also a subjective report and open to interpretation. Each week we will use interviews, letters, blogs, and/or declarations of a single artist as tools to consider that artist’s work and practice. And through this interpretive process participants will gain insight into art practice in general and their own practice specifically. Course participants will also be asked to take part in their own interview sometime during the semester.Editor details
Last edited by: Jeffrey Scudder
Edit access: Staff, Faculty