Art and science are typically understood as diametrically opposed; however, as science became the culturally dominant form of knowledge in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, artists began to imitate, represent, and even challenge its discoveries and inventions. This seminar will investigate some of the most intriguing examples of scientifically inspired art, including Seurat's systematic application of the law of simultaneous contrast, Duchamp's alternative metric system, the Bauhaus's experiments, and responses to the Atomic bomb. We will pay close attention to the ways artists misunderstood and adapted scientific practices and ask broader questions like why science became a cultural touchstone in the modern period and how science affected the definition of art.

HISTART Concentration Distributions: 4. Modern and Contemporary, D. Europe and the U.S.

Estimated cost of materials: $0-$50.

Textbooks/Other Materials: All readings free on Canvas.

Course Requirements: Participation (40%), Short Assignments (20%), Research Paper (40%)

Intended Audience: All are welcome.

Class format: Seminar

This course fulfills the LS&A Humanities distribution requirement