Panel Discussion: Practicing the Public Arts and Humanities

April 13, 2016 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.

Humanities Center 218

What does it mean to “practice” the arts and humanities?

The Greek origins of the word tell us that to practice, or be practical, is to be concerned with the actual doing or use of something. Within an academic setting, practice might be demonstrated through the application of research, for example, or by the knowledge acquired through hands-on experience.

Although usually not considered practical disciplines, in fact the arts and humanities “do” many things, including bringing creative opportunities to people who may lack these in their lives; providing contexts that inspire people to greater creativity and freedom of thought, as well as inner reflection; and showing people a larger world in which creative production is encouraged and nurtured.

Panel members will discuss the diverse ways in which they and their students practice the arts and humanities beyond the classroom.

Panel members will be: Rory Kraft, English and Humanities, YCP; Peter Levy, History and Political Science, YCP; Melanie M. Rodgers, Communication and the Arts, YCP; Erec Smith, English and Humanities, YCP