Students will study the canonical works of American artists, concentrating on painting and sculpture and the related visual arts. Particular emphasis will be given to images which have been considered as definitive of an "American" vision. Lectures, readings, and study tours to Washington collections will encourage recognition of the ways in which art has been enlisted to further social and political agendas, especially attempts to achieve cultural independence. Undergraduates who have completed less than 51 credits must have the permission of the assistant dean for BALS to register.