Overview

Images are both subtle and ambiguous; they can both complement and contradict other texts. The ability to see, interpret, and evaluate visual images of all types is an ever more important skill set in the increasingly visual world. From cave painting to computer-generated virtual realities, students endeavor to engage the visual legacy of the past while preparing to function in the realm of the non-textual.

Key facts

• The Vanderbilt University offers a History of Art major, plus art and architectural history minors. We encourage students to consider courses in cognate disciplines in the humanities and social sciences. Courses are offered at all levels and in most major subfields of the discipline. Students who major in history of art are required to take at least two advanced seminars that are closely related to the faculty’s areas of research and publication. These courses offer an important opportunity to interact closely with professors while pursuing a focused research topic.
• The Visual Resources Center is a dynamic entity, providing not only imaging services (including a searchable online database of images—DIMLI), but also serving as a key facilitator in cutting-edge digital humanities projects through their fearless exploration of engaging new technologies. The university also has access to the ARTstor digital image library. These collections are available for advanced undergraduate research. In addition, the Fine Arts Gallery oversees an active program of exhibitions and a varied study collection related to history of art courses.