The Material Culture Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison examines forms, uses, and meanings of objects, design, and environments in everyday life. Associated faculty pursue innovative,Log Cabin Quilt, variation, Artist unknown, United States, 1880-1899, silk on cotton backing, 55 1/2 x 60 3/4 in., courtesy of the Helen Louise Allen Textile Collection, Q.P.US.31 interdisciplinary teaching and research that engages the material worlds of diverse cultures and times. As an interdisciplinary program in a major research institution, it draws upon an active community of scholars, a broad curriculum, rich study collections, and close ties to other local cultural institutions. Undergraduate and graduate students participate in the Program to gain a Certificate in Material Culture Studies. Typically, they work closely with core faculty in the Departments of Art History, Environment, Textiles and Design, and History.

German (probably Cologne or Raeren) Jug, ca. 1680-1700, grayish-buff stoneware, salt glaze, 8 1/8 x 5 1/8 in., courtesy of the Chipstone Foundation, 1964.2, photo Gavin Ashworth
Undergraduates are encouraged to study in a variety of departments to build upon their majors. At the graduate level, students apply to the department or program that best addresses their interests and goals, and then pursue the recommended courses for the Certificate in conjunction with the degree requirements of their home department. With ten departments across campus participating in the program, students are able to take advantage of a number of exciting elective courses en route to earning the Certificate. Herbert F. Johnson, Jr., Wingspread Residence, Racine, WI, Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, 1939, Gottscho-Schleisner Collection (Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division), LC-G612-36153



Program Description
Graduate Certificate Requirements
Undergraduate Certificate Requirements
Courses

Internships







 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"MAgriTTA" chair, Roberto Sebastian Matta, 1970, Inspired by the work of the Surrealist painter, Rene Magritte, the name of the chair plays on both his name and the name of the designer, plastic, foam and acrylic frame.


© 2003 The Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System