Latinoamérica a través de sus objetos

Latin America through its objects

Course Description

Welcome to "Latinoamérica a través de sus objetos" (Latin America through its objects), an innovative and engaging course that challenges traditional historical narratives by exploring Latin American history through the lens of material culture. This course offers a unique perspective on the region's past and present by examining everyday objects, art, design, and crafts. By focusing on these tangible artifacts, students will gain a deeper understanding of Latin American history, culture, and society, while developing critical thinking skills and a new appreciation for the power of material culture in shaping our understanding of the world.

What students will learn

  • Identify significant moments in Latin American history through objects of art, design, and crafts
  • Develop a critical perspective on traditional historical narratives
  • Recognize the value of Latin American material culture in a global context
  • Identify materials, techniques, and styles specific to the region
  • Recognize different stages in the "life" of various objects and their historical value
  • Extrapolate the historical value of past objects to the use and consumption of objects in the present

Pre-requisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this course. It is designed as an introductory-level course and is accessible to anyone with an interest in Latin American history, art, and culture.

Course Coverage

  • The politics of raw materials and territory
  • Objects and hybridizations in Latin American culture
  • The power of making: oppression and resistance
  • Modes of production and responses to local and global markets
  • Critical thinking about gender, race, national identities, and social groups
  • Consumerism and environmental issues in Latin America
  • Identification of materials, techniques, and styles in Latin American art and design

Who this course is for

  • Students interested in Latin American history, art, and culture
  • Individuals seeking a fresh perspective on historical narratives
  • Art and design enthusiasts looking to expand their knowledge of Latin American creativity
  • Anyone curious about the role of everyday objects in shaping society and culture
  • Professionals in fields such as museum studies, anthropology, or cultural studies
  • Spanish-speaking learners or those looking to improve their Spanish language skills

Real-world Applications

  • Museum curation and exhibition design
  • Cultural heritage preservation and management
  • Art and design criticism and analysis
  • Historical research and writing
  • Cultural diplomacy and international relations
  • Sustainable design and production practices
  • Consumer behavior analysis and marketing strategies
  • Environmental and social impact assessments
  • Education and curriculum development focused on Latin American studies

Syllabus

Topic 1: The Politics of Raw Materials and Territory

  • Raw materials
  • Corn and Tortilla
  • The Banana
  • Woods in Brazil

Topic 2: Objects and Hybridizations

  • Tradition and the traditional
  • Andean Textiles and the Chuspa Q'ero
  • Afro-Brazilian material culture
  • Hybridization of furniture

Topic 3: The Power of Making, Oppression, and Resistance

  • General context
  • The Cuban Revolution
  • Economy of repair
  • Political oppression and material culture
  • Design and social issues

Topic 4: Modes of Production and Responses to Local and Global Markets

  • Experiences in Latin America
  • Design objects
  • When technology and design fail
  • The legacy of the long 20th century