ENGFLM 1293 - AMERICAN PHOTOGRAPHY/AMERICAN CULTURE

Minimum Credits: 3
Maximum Credits: 3
Photography's basic function is to record. So, what and who are worth documenting? Who has the right to photograph, who and what is represented and why? How do images affirm or debunk our stereotypes about "others," and how do difference and identity emerge through photography? Race and class in American photography explores these questions by examining American photography of African Americans, native Americans, the Japanese interned, union workers, celebrities, and more. Images by and of photographers of varying backgrounds is collectively viewed and discussed in order to further understand photography's relationship to the social history of race and class in the United States, and to examine ourselves and our relationship to those like/unlike us. Race and class in American photography spans photography's nascent developments until the early part of the 21st century. Photography by those such as Bill Burke, Teenie Harris, James van der Zee, Walker Evans, P.H. Polk, Edward s. Curtis, Toyo Miyatake, and Beth Yarnelle Edwards is examined and discussed. Readings from the course packet include essays by leading photo critics and critical theorists such as Theresa Harlan, Bell Hooks, Vicki Goldberg, Andy Grunberg, Deborah Willis and Karin Higa.
Academic Career: Undergraduate
Course Component: Lecture
Grade Component: LG/SNC Elective Basis

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