Museums have become a crucible for questions of the role that traditional art and art history should play in contemporary art. Friedrich Nietzsche argued in the nineteenth century that museums can be no more than mausoleums for effete (fine) art. Over the course of the twentieth century, however, curators dispelled such blanket pessimism by…

Examines the background to and the stylistic characteristics of the Art Nouveau movement in its literary and artistic manifestations, emphasizing its nature as a synthesis of various contemporary, artistic, and intellectual trends. (SJL)

Examines Vincent Scully's work as teacher, writer, and critic. This reminisce by a former student also lauds Scully's role as mentor to several generations of art historians. Briefly covers his work on behalf of historic preservation and discusses two seminal works, "American Architecture and Urbanism" and "The Earth, the Temple,…

Vincent Scully, Yale art historian, discusses urban architecture, classical influences, and the role of technology. He argues for a public architecture that expresses and supports the concept of communities, and discusses the decline and rebirth of American cities. (MJP)

Argues that art history should have a more prominent place in primary and secondary education. Suggests promoting art history by (1) ensuring that teachers are knowledgeable in the discipline; (2) studying art history through other disciplines; and (3) exposing students to real artworks, local architecture, and the significance of popular culture.…