Department of Art History

Across time and around the globe, humans have built vast visual worlds. Using a diverse set of original research skills, from fieldwork to close visual analysis, we unlock their meanings.

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Recent News

Crowd watches a man paint a mural on canvases

U of M students learn by doing with new exhibition focused on Black joy

“Layers of Joy” explores joy as a form of resistance through the lens of five local artists.

Person painting on a white canvas with audience overlooking

U of M students learn by doing with new exhibition focused on Black joy

Daniel M Greenberg, assistant professor of art history, Dwight K Lewis, Jr., assistant professor of philosophy, and Twin Cities students are quoted in this MinnPost article.

Layers of Joy: A Community Celebration of Black Art and Artists in Minneapolis

Curated by Art History & Philosophy students for the Department of Art's Quarter Gallery, the exhibition features five artists creating work with and about Black joy.

Black and white image of a machine made with found parts

Spring 2025 Art History Courses

We are pleased to offer a variety of courses this spring.

Book cover with colorful illustration of people

Dr. Sinem Casale Receives Major Book Award

Congratulations to Professor Sinem Casale who won the 2024 Religion and the Arts Book Award from the American Academy of Religion for her book Gifts in the Age of Empire…

Upcoming Events

In-Person

November 19 - December 14, 2024

Layers of Joy

A group exhibition in the Quarter Gallery featuring five Black artists whose works explore joy as a means of expression and engagement.