In Focus Lecture: Look Close, See Far: Teaching and Learning at the Block

Look Close, See Far: Teaching and Learning at the Block Museum of Art

How can art help us understand ourselves – or the world – differently? Join us for a conversation about how the Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University works to support interdisciplinary teaching and dialogue for campus and community audiences, and a special look at The Living Room, a new drop-in space created with students in mind and open to all. Designed to be comfortable (with coffee allowed and long visits encouraged), The Living Room centers close-looking and curiosity, showcasing a single artwork each month from the museum’s collection alongside prompts and activities to inspire reflection and dialogue that extends beyond the museum’s walls. This participatory talk will include examples of close-looking exercises that can be used to explore any work of art.

About the Speaker

Erin Northington is the Susan and Stephen Wilson Associate Director of Campus and Community Education and Engagement at the Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University where she directs public programming, co-curricular learning experiences, and collaborations with campus and community partners. Her areas of interest include higher education, interdisciplinary teaching and learning in academic art museums, and how art museums can support the college student experience. Prior to coming to the Block Museum in 2020, she served as the Assistant Director of Student Programs and Campus Initiatives at the Harvard Art Museums. She holds a BA in English and Art History from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School.

Please note: this is an in person only event