HIST 5709 Photography and Public History

2027 Winter Term
Instructor: James Opp
 



Photograph of a colour slide from
the South Street Seaport Museum
Barbara Mensch
“The Nobility of Work” exhibition
Detail from Danish Photo Album, 1971
Royal Library, Copenhagen
 
 
Scope & Objectives: This course explores the social history of photography/photographic practices, with an eye towards unravelling the methodological and theoretical issues that complicate the use of photographs as evidence of “the past.” Through seminar discussions and assignments, we will contextualize the historical production of photographs while at the same time problematizing how photographs are used to visualize history. By exposing the power relations invested in photographic practices, we will critically assess how the archiving, collecting, publishing, and exhibiting of photographs have historically and continue to serve as sites of contested memory.
 
This course does not aspire to offer a comprehensive survey of photographers, detail the technical history of cameras and film, or compare photographic styles as a function of art. No photographic technical ability is required. Rather, through selective themes and case examples, we will trace the power of photographic representations, consider their materiality, and reconsider how scholars employ, utilize, and come to terms with photographs and photographic practice.
 
Class Format & Readings: This is an in-person, student-led seminar in a three-hour block. Some weeks may be set aside for field trip or archive work, depending upon availability and access. Graduate-level participation and engagement with the course material will be expected. No textbook for this class is required, but readings will be made available. 
 
Assignments: Assignments will focus on analyzing and working with photographs in spaces of public history. Exact form and format, TBA.  
 
Who do I contact?  Please email james.opp@carleton.ca  (see also jamesopp.com for more information about the instructor)