Program Overview
To study art history is to engage imaginatively, to analyze critically, and to respond empathetically to past and present cultures and peoples from around the world. From Viking hoards to Japanese Kabuki actors to the European Avant-Garde, you will explore multiple artistic practices and be introduced to varied research methods. Through deep research in the classroom, studying abroad, or curating objects in Wriston Art Galleries, you’ll deepen your visual analysis, critical thinking and refine your writing and oral skills needed to enter careers in museums and galleries, arts management, education, law, archives, and historic preservation.
Program Highlights
Connect Art Across Disciplines
Explore art history through connections with museum studies, history, religion, film, gender studies, East Asian studies, and ethnic studies.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Build practical skills through internships, archival research, and opportunities to curate exhibitions using works from the Wriston Art Center collection.
Experience Art Beyond Campus
Visit national and international museums during a junior-year field trip designed to deepen your understanding of art, culture, and curatorial practice.
Prepare for What Comes Next
Develop the research, writing, and analytical skills that support strong placement in graduate and professional programs.
Spotlight
LAWRENTIAN SPOTLIGHT
Student Perspective
“I was a little surprised that I became an art history major, but after taking my first art history class, I was like, ‘This is what I want to do.’”
Sarah Matthews ’23
Art History
Stoughton, Wisconsin
Types of Degrees
Pursue a major in art history with opportunities to explore areas such as medieval art, East Asian art, and modern and contemporary art. You can also choose a minor in art history or expand your studies through the interdisciplinary museum studies program.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
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Fill out the form below and a Lawrence University academic advisor will be in touch shortly!
Faculty
Engage deeply and collaboratively with faculty who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
Chair(s)
Beth A. Zinsli (she/her)
Associate Provost and Adjunct Associate Professor of Art History
I teach courses on the history and theory of photography, museum studies, global modernisms, and contemporary art. In addition to an active curatorial practice, I write about photography from Cuba…
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Elizabeth Carlson
Associate Professor of Art History
elizabeth.carlson@lawrence.edu
I teach courses covering European Modern, Contemporary and American art, material culture, and theory. My scholarly publications look at the intersection between rising consumerism, new modes of visual display, and…
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Laura Hoekstra
Visiting Curator of the Wriston Art Center Galleries
I curate the Lawrence University Art Collection and teach courses in museum studies. My professional background includes work with a range of galleries, museums, and preservation organizations—most recently the Wisconsin…
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Beth A. Zinsli (she/her)
Associate Provost and Adjunct Associate Professor of Art History
I teach courses on the history and theory of photography, museum studies, global modernisms, and contemporary art. In addition to an active curatorial practice, I write about photography from Cuba…
View Full ProfileLearning Spaces
Opportunities to work with the Wriston art collection both in the classroom and outside it.
