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Artists are not only born, but also made by way of persistent cultural myths and images. This seminar investigates key concepts and stereotypes of the artist that were developed in early modern Europe, and how they continue to shape our historical imagination and ideas about artists today. The artist as hero, inspired genius, outlaw, trickster, virtuoso, and miracle of nature are among the cultural stereotypes that we will explore. Using case studies of such figures as Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Artemisia Gentileschi, and Vermeer, we will consider the strategies used by early modern artists to shape their professional and social identities. We will then examine how the images and stereotypes created during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries have been used and modified in the work of modern filmmakers, writers, and artists. Topics for discussion include varieties of self-portraiture and self-representation , the relation of art and artist's biographies, the role of gender in the imagery of the artist, the making and marketing of artists images, and the value of art and artist then and now. Expectations include informed participation in class discussions based on weekly readings, participation in-class exercises, two short papers, a short oral presentation, and a term project. Class meetings will combine discussion, lecture, student presentations, and viewing of films. Since the seminar meets once a week, attendance at all sessions is expected. (Brusati)

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