Built for the curious and knowledge seekers, the technical art history major emphasizes the scientific study of structures of art and objects, within art historical contexts, and values hands-on experience in preventative art conservation, conservation and restoration of artifacts, and reconstruction techniques. Students will conduct research on the physical nature of art and its making through interdisciplinary studies in art history, art, science, anthropology, and more depending on their areas of interest.
Technical art history majors will graduate well-equipped for a multi-faceted career of collaboration with conservators, scientists and museum professionals. They will enhance the world's ability to care for its art and material culture. Graduates will excel in high-demand careers and be prepared for elite graduate programs including: art and object conservation, ethnographic and archaeological materials conservation, historic preservation, art history, museum studies, art handler, museum technician, library and archival studies, and more.
In the classroom, technical art history majors will: assess the construction and condition of art and artifacts, conduct risk assessments for museum collections, employ preventive care for collections; conduct digital documentation with stereomicroscopy, ultraviolet illumination, and digital photography; examine objects using infrared reflectography, microscopy, and x-rays; participate in disaster recovery exercises, and study with world-renown conservation professionals. They will visually analyze objects, conduct comparative analyses, engage in archival research, and develop broad cultural historical and aesthetic knowledge.
The San Gemini Preservation Studies Global Positioning Studies program is the ideal hands-on study abroad program for a technical art history major. This program is a series of professional place-based field courses in conservation, preservation, and restoration of cultural heritage in San Gemini, Umbria, Italy. The program offers students both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills on field projects and workshops.