Art Within Reach – an art history class taught by Dr. Amy Von Lintel, assistant professor of art history, has brought a new perspective in to art history education in WTAMU.
The class concentrates on learning art history through visiting art resources in the Texas Panhandle as well as through the observation of original art objects.
“[The class] teaches students resources for art we have here in the area,” Dr. Von Lintel said. “You don´t need to go to New York or France.”
She said that normally art history classes require memorization, but this class is more about thinking and discovery.
Bonita Ramsey, senior graphic design major, said that learning through observing actual works of art has been helpful for her education.
“I think it enhances our learning because we are seeing actual sizes of pieces of art work,” she said. “In slides, size can be very deceiving. It also allows us to learn by experience rather than just by lecture.”
Through the class, students also have the opportunity to speak with artists about their work of art.
“We are able to view this art firsthand, speak with artists, curators and private collectors,” Valerie Roberts, senior graphic design major, said. “We are able to see the brush strokes, the texture of the paper and stone, and the environments in which the art is displayed. A student cannot experience these things in a classroom.”
This semester, students will have the opportunity to talk with the artists of one of the most famous sites in Amarillo, the Cadillac Ranch.
“We are interviewing Ant Farm, [who] did Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo,” Dr. Von Lintel said. “Students will have the opportunity to talk to him through skype.”
Students in the Art Within Reach class are not only art majors. Dr. Von Lintel said that it is important to understand that art history is an interdisciplinary field.
“Print uses chemicals, [art history is also] cultural and on national studies,” she said.
Another important aspect of the Art Within Reach class is the writing component.
“I’m pushing writing in my class because language can help them as artists to express themselves,” Von Lintel said. “Language brings us together.”
She also said that art history is fundamental for WT because it helps students to be more critical of messages as well as bringing them new perspectives.
“Part of the university experience is that students should find [their] own voice,” Von Lintel said. “Art history can help you find your own objective that speaks to you and write about that.”
Ramsey encourages students at WT to take this class.
“It gives them a better appreciation of what is available in the area,” she said. “Many don’t see this area as particularly artistic, but there are treasures here that should be experienced.”
