Black Arts in Theory and Practice

In this course, we will explore the practice, theory, and study of the Arts with a focus on Black creative practice(s) in the United States through a Diasporic lens. Our exploration will consist of significant readings, class discussion, analysis (written and verbal), performance, and invited special guests who are renowned experts in their field of study/performance. We will develop a critical approach to analyzing the sound, aesthetics, performance, and cultural meaning within various traditions of the Black Arts. Some of our core areas of study include (Black) Performance Theory, the analysis and performance of (Black) Music, the choreography of Blackness through dance, how Black Life appears in Scene (Theater/film); Visual analysis of Blackness in the Arts, approaches to interdisciplinary improvisation, and practices of (Black) Experimentalism. Students will gain a robust understanding of and engagement with the multitudinous approaches to creating and theorizing through the Arts and Black cultural production.