This multidisciplinary course surveys Asian contemporary visual cultures through the lens of desire. Through a wide range of visual and written texts and artist case studies, we will critically examine the desires of the nation state, as well as the wants of "non-Western" artists and the cravings of global art markets. With a focus on the intersections of gender and sexuality, class and ethnicity, the class links historical and contemporary social and political issues. We will explore the rise of Asia and the diversity - and limits - of Asian identities and identifications. The antithesis of desire - disgust - is also analyzed, including pervasive stereotypes and anti-Asianism. Students will hone their critical thinking skills through in-depth discussions, presentations, response and research papers, and a creative project.
This multidisciplinary course surveys Asian contemporary visual cultures through the lens of desire. Through a wide range of visual and written texts and artist case studies, we will critically examine the desires of the nation state, as well as the wants of "non-Western" artists and the cravings of global art markets. With a focus on the intersections of gender and sexuality, class and ethnicity, the class links historical and contemporary social and political issues. We will explore the rise of Asia and the diversity - and limits - of Asian identities and identifications. The antithesis of desire - disgust - is also analyzed, including pervasive stereotypes and anti-Asianism. Students will hone their critical thinking skills through in-depth discussions, presentations, response and research papers, and a creative project.