Archaeology is a visual discipline: it searches for material evidence of the human past and presents its discoveries with an array of graphic media. Drawing Archaeology (ART 407) first offered by Assistant Professor Sam Holzman in fall 2024, combines training in drawing as an observational tool for excavation with critical analysis of visual media based on archaeological and art historical theory. Students in the course build a drawing portfolio with hands-on study of artifacts from the University's collections, to delve into archives, and to practice using digital recording tools. What are the challenges of reconstructing fragmentary evidence? Do drawings shape our perception of the past?

Students in Introduction to the History of Architecture (ART 102) regularly examine materials from the archaeological and archival collections managed by Visual Resources. In this survey of architectural history from ancient Egypt to contemporary America, students hone a critical approach to architecture through the analysis of context, expressive content, function, structure, style, building technology, and theory; having an opportunity to handle old notebooks, maps, and plans bring these often abstract topics to life.

During the Spring 2024 semester, Visual Resources Digital Project Specialist, Leigh Anne Lieberman, co-taught a course with Caroline Cheung (Classics) called The Science of Roman History (CLA 247). “That’s ancient history.” We commonly say that when we think that something is outdated or completely forgotten and no longer relevant, but groundbreaking scientific and technological approaches are bringing to light some of the most fascinating discoveries of the ancient world that reveal the same issues we are concerned with today.