Public programs in art museums are designed to spark conversation, curiosity, and connection. What was once the limited realm of educational lectures from experts in the field has evolved into a dynamic, diverse practice spanning a range of modes of engagement. Programs amplify the perspectives of artists, writers, thinkers, community leaders and changemakers, and explore art, our lives, and the critical issues of our time. From quiet, intimate gatherings looking closely at a single work of art to listening parties, performances, readings, conversations, hands-on workshops and more, public programs can be designed to incite wonder, spark curiosity, deepen understanding, pose critique, share new perspectives or relax, unwind, and have fun. What makes a great program and why? How do you engage different audiences and develop an inclusive and equitable approach? How do you create meaningful experiences and lasting impressions?

In this course, students will be introduced to the art of engagement. Drawing on case studies, readings, and lectures by guest speakers in the field, students will be immersed in the methods, objectives, history, and theory of public engagement. Throughout the semester, students will develop their skills through workshops, exercises, and interactive discussions, examining questions of care, relevance, responsiveness, equity, access, innovation, imagination, and fun in public engagement—from the Brooklyn Museum’s community-centered First Saturdays, the Whitney Museum’s artist programs, the Met’s contemplative Observant Eye, MoMA’s Create Ability and Art inSight Access Programs, to the RISD Museum’s own signature Ways of Looking. Students will also be introduced to collaborative methods of co-creating programs with artists and communities, and strategies for designing mutually beneficial programs. This course is designed for students to think deeply about activating and sharing different aspects of their work with different audiences, exploring creative process, concepts, context, and inspiration. 

Students will also have the option of researching and working with contemporary and historic objects from the RISD Museum collection. This course will also introduce students to the history and theory of public programs in the art museum and areas of growth, innovation and new directions in the field. Students will learn about different audiences, and strategies and modes of engagement with opportunities to learn firsthand through field trips and workshops.

Elective