UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Department of Art History’s Visual Resources Centre (VRC) will host "Imaging Art History," an interactive installation focusing on the changing progression of visual resources that art historians have used in their teaching and research over the years.
A range of materials revealing some of the earliest tools of the discipline will be on view, along with examples of current art history research. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, visitors will be invited to interact with the various examples as well as to tap into their creativity by transforming discarded slides into works of art.
PROGRAM
"The History of the Slide"
Thursday, April 11, noon–1 p.m.
Join Craig Zabel, associate professor of art history, as he presents a nostalgic look at the art history of old, and then learn about the technical aspects of the photographic tools and processes from Eric Roman, visiting assistant professor of art in the School of Visual Arts. Hands-on exploration of the technologies will be encouraged in this community engagement activity.
"Digital Art History: Current and Future Research"
Wednesday, April 17, noon-1 p.m.
New directions in art historical research, utilizing digital tools, will be the focus of this week’s lunchtime lecture. James Z. Wang, professor of information sciences and technology, will discuss computerized image analysis and retrieval, and art history graduate students will share their explorations into digital humanities.
Afternoon Tea and Closing Reception
Thursday, April 18, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Celebrate the end of the project with an afternoon tea and reception. Participants who didn’t have a chance to create a repurposed slide masterpiece earlier during the installation, are welcome to do so at this event. Discarded slides and materials for construction will be provided. Previously made works of art can be retrieved at this time as well.
About the Borland Project Space
The Borland Project Space seeks to showcase the vivacious research culture of Penn State's College of Arts and Architecture. With this notion, the college moves beyond traditional exhibitions, performances and scholarly programming to expose the processes and procedures of “arts research,” which viewers seldom see. Home to several residences and projects throughout the academic year, the space is open for visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For additional information on current and upcoming events, visit borlandprojectspace.psu.edu.