Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Research Paper

Department

Whittier Scholars Program

First Advisor

David Sloan

Abstract

This project is divided into three sections. The first and largest section is an essay about the paradoxical view that Americans have of nature. It explores how art reflects the dichotomy between conservation and exploitation. The essay investigates the historical foundations of this paradox through 19th century landscape painting. It then covers two 20th century art movements, Regional Photography and Earthworks, to reinvestigate the dualistic American outlook. The essay concludes by examining a select group of artists whose work investigates land use and land conservation in modern-day America. The second section is a detailed account of the process of curating an exhibition at Whittier College’s Greenleaf Gallery. The third section is information about the artists featured in the project.

Comments

WSP Major: Cultural Studies/French

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