Spring 2018 and 2019
Jean Rasenberger
Fine Art
As a vibrant center of contemporary and historical art, Berlin is shaped by complex social forces. Germany’s history, both political, economic and cultural, encompasses the most horrific events of the 20th century, as well as some of the most progressive cultural work in the 20th and 21st century. In this range of forces are many lessons for artists making art in America right now. As preparation for the visit the historical background of Germany was covered in class preparatory sessions. In Berlin, museum, gallery and artists visits ranged from the 16th century to current times, with an emphasis on contextual and multi-cultural understanding.
Student field work in Berlin encompassed group visits as well as time for individual or small group independent exploration.
Selected students spent the Spring 2018 or 2019 term at Art Center preparing for their visit through lecture courses oriented towards the historical context of the sites they plan to visit. Following the Spring semester preparation, students stayed in Berlin during the Spring/Summer break, experiencing its art and culture firsthand. Students visited many galleries, museums, and important historical sites. In addition, they had opportunities to meet with local artists. Students kept a notebook with their research, findings, drawings, photographs to demonstrate how this new knowledge will impact their future art making.