History of Exhibitions examines how specific exhibitions have shaped the public perception of art and helped to establish the role of artists and their works in determining cultural values. Through a series of case studies, it traces significant developments in the production, display, and dissemination of art. The course begins with a brief survey of the French academies and the official exhibitions they organized called salons. International Expositions and World Fairs also played an important role in bringing art movements to the public’s attention. However, the bulk of the course will focus on modern and contemporary art exhibitions, which can be said to begin with the 1863 Salon des Refusés in Paris. This exhibition challenged the conservative notion of art sanctioned by official national bodies and initiated our more contemporary understanding of art as a radical intervention into cultural life. Among the other case studies are key touchstone exhibitions in the history of modern and contemporary art.

In addition, the course will focus on the importance of Biennials and Universal Expositions as a way to adapt exhibitions to a more global network of nations, institutions, and the growing influence of commercial galleries. World Fairs place art in the context of innovations in Industry and Technology, beginning with The Great Exhibition, London, 1851. Taking place largely in Europe and America, these fairs introduced national pavilions on the model of expositions that broadened global cultural exchanges, although often simultaneously reinforcing stereotypes about non-western populations. Biennials offer a more culturally sensitive exchange. The course will consider innovative curatorial strategies introduced at key Biennials, such as Venice, São Paulo, Habana, Istanbul, Dak’Art, and Gwangju. It concludes with a consideration of recent exhibitions designed to engage with activist issues and artists whose work is characterized by relational aesthetics and social practice.

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