Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/gender-art
Have you ever looked at a painting and wondered about the unspoken narratives of gender and sexuality woven into its very fabric? Coursera’s ‘Sexing the Canvas: Art and Gender’ course dives deep into this fascinating intersection, offering a fresh perspective on some of the world’s most celebrated artworks. Guided by expert curators and art historians, this course moves beyond traditional interpretations to explore how gender shapes both the creation and reception of art.
From the moment you begin, the course establishes that gender and sexuality are not mere afterthoughts but integral components of artistic expression. The syllabus is a rich tapestry of case studies, starting with Tiepolo’s ‘Banquet of Cleopatra.’ Here, we’re introduced to foundational theories like the ‘male gaze’ and then challenged to see how Tiepolo’s depiction of Cleopatra as a powerful regent breaks these conventions, emphasizing her agency. This initial exploration sets a powerful precedent for the critical lens applied throughout the course.
Subsequent modules delve into the ‘Culture of Sensibility’ through Thomas Gainsborough’s portraits, examining masculinity and the ideals of the ‘man of feeling’ in 18th-century Britain. We then journey to the Huntington Gallery to analyze more of Gainsborough’s work, exploring themes of gender boundaries, effeminacy, and passion. Jennifer Milam’s segment on 18th-century French courtly painting is particularly illuminating, uncovering the subtle sexual codes and symbols embedded in the works of Boucher and Fragonard.
The course doesn’t shy away from complex topics like Orientalism and its gendered representations, as seen in the works of John Lavery and Hilda Rix Nicholas in Morocco. It also highlights artists who challenged norms, such as Henri Rousseau, who portrayed women as sources of creativity and mystery, and Frida Kahlo, whose self-portraits candidly explore identity and struggle. The syllabus even ventures into modernism with analyses of Matisse, Cezanne, and Max Dupain, considering how scientific advancements influenced the portrayal of the body and gender.
Finally, the course offers a profound look at Indigenous Australian art, specifically examining Emily Kam Kngwarray’s ‘Big Yam Dreaming’ and works by Martumili artists through the lens of ‘women’s business.’
‘Sexing the Canvas’ is an exceptionally well-curated and insightful course. It equips learners with the tools to critically analyze art through a gendered perspective, revealing layers of meaning previously overlooked. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about how gender influences culture, this course offers a rewarding and intellectually stimulating experience. Highly recommended!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/gender-art