Art is the document of human creative activity. It describes vanished cultures and enigmatic modern ones. Art history seeks to interpret the art of the past and to stimulate a dialogue between the visual object and the verbal explanation. The study of art history expands our understanding of peoples of the world and their unique cultures. As one of the traditional liberal arts disciplines, art history provides special insights into the roles of art and the artist in our society.

Art history at Susquehanna focuses on current issues in the theory and criticism of art. It develops students' experience with original works of art, as well as with the written word. Classes are taught with a multimedia approach to images of art from major museums around the world. New computer technology at Susquehanna makes it possible to study art history individually, as well as in the classroom. Students also learn together, cultivating their experience with aesthetic ideas described in historic objects from various cultures. They regularly visit some of the nation's finest museums to study major artists and art movements found in famous collections.

Students are also encouraged to participate in the organization, research and handling of exhibitions at the university's Lore Degenstein Gallery. Building upon the art history class experience, they bring their ideas into the gallery, where they can be shared with the public. On occasion, opportunities develop for students to publish their writings in exhibition catalogs and to prepare display texts for the gallery walls.


Susquehanna University Last reviewed by Nick Stephenson, Associate Director of Admissions.
Mark Fertig, Department Head, Art, Art History, Graphic Design.
© 2005 Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA 17870.
Telephone: 570-372-4260 or 1-800-326-9672.