21A.509/STS.474  Art, Craft, Science: Topics in Material Culture

This course explores topics in material culture studies by focusing on the relationships between making (knowledge, objects, value, e.g.) and doing (science, craft, horticulture, everyday life, e.g.). Anthropological and STS theories of design, materiality, embodiment, skill, labor, tacit knowledge and value are used to explore distinctions and connections among art, craft, and science. We will discuss the commoditization of objects and knowledge into market goods, collectibles, and tourism industries. Ethnographic and historical case studies include textiles, horticulture, sugar, cheese, mineral mining, artistic and laboratory work.