Professor Jolly
Midterm Essay
Due: March 6, 2005
For your take-home midterm, IÕd like you to write a 5-7 page essay addressing the legacy of art and revolution in Mexico between 1910-1940. What do you see as the most viable artistic responses to the revolution? (You should clearly state your criterion for viability; what is revolutionary art in this context?) What elements of post-revolution art do you think are problematic and need to be rethought? This evaluation of the course material from the first half of the semester will serve as a basis for our continued work together.
You can assume that you are talking to me or one of your classmates who is familiar with the artwork weÕve seen in class and reading (so you donÕt have to describe an entire mural cycle, for example), but do be specific about how any work you discuss supports your argument. Additionally, I will be looking for the following:
1. A clear and compelling argument sustained and substantiated throughout your essay.
2. Consideration of a range of proposals for revolutionary art found in Mexico (i.e.: do not just focus on a single monument, unless you think it exemplary and can discuss it in relationship to various other artworks / agendas weÕve seen). Clearly establish that you have seriously engaged works from more than one class session or reading!
3. DonÕt, however, give me a blow-by-blow account of the first half of the semester; be selective and build your paper around your argument, not a narration of the syllabus.
4. Demonstrated awareness of the political and social context of MexicoÕs artistic cultures.
5. Engagement with the various readings and sources we have used, cited with proper art history footnotes (not embedded, but long form; see Chicago Style guide).
Do use your readings and class notes. Do discuss your ideas together (or with me if that would help). When it comes to writing, I expect you to produce your own work and abide by Ithaca CollegeÕs standards for Academic Honesty. If you use/engage other peoplesÕ ideas, cite your source (even if it is not a direct quote). Cite web sources.