2016 Summer Institute in Technical Art History For Doctoral Students in Art History, Institute of Fine Arts, NYU, June 6–17, 2016
The Summer Institute in Technical Art History (SITAH) is an intensive two-week course, geared towards PhD candidates in art history who are looking to delve more deeply into technical studies. Students are immersed into the world of technical art history and conservation of works of art, with faculty ranging from conservators to conservation scientists, curators, art historians, and artists. The course takes full advantage of the wonderful resources of New York City, and many sessions are held in local conservation labs, where attendees have the opportunity to closely examine works of art with experts in the field. Off-site visits also include artists’ studios, museum permanent collections, and, where relevant, special exhibitions and galleries. A priority is placed on case studies and discussions, and students are encouraged to build relationships within the group, in the hopes of enriching their own research.
The 2016 Summer Institute in Technical Art History focuses on forms of the model in art and architecture. We will examine preparatory materials such as sketches, bozzetti, and architectural plans, as well as presentation models for sculpture and architecture, and will look for evidence of the model in the finished work of art. Our study will consider works that served as models for other media, like prints and lay figures; maps, globes, and three-dimensional botanical and medical replicas; so-called tomb models; the contemporary use of models in art making; and the afterlives of models as collection objects. This topic will allow us to explore questions of scale, material, and process through close examination of objects in New York City museums and conservation laboratories.
Participants will study with distinguished conservators, art historians, scholars and artists, with a focus on materiality and process through close looking at art objects. Hands-on studio sessions will introduce historic and contemporary working practices. Participants will discuss how these methodologies materially and theoretically inform their own diverse research interests. This seminar will provide a forum to develop critical skills in the interpretation of object-based analyses.
Generously funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the seminar will be held at the Conservation Center of the Institute of Fine Arts, and in New York City’s leading museums. Participants will receive housing and a stipend of $1400 to help defray travel costs.
Students currently enrolled in or completing a doctoral program in the US and Canada are eligible to apply. No background in science or conservation is required.