The Global Arts Studies Program combines the study of visual arts and music, as well as the interactions of sight and sound in film, television, dance, theater, videogames, and other multimedia. We study these arts in historical and cultural context all around the world, learning about their inner workings as well as their place in society. The GASP major combines scholarly courses with practical hands-on training in ensemble and studio settings, for a rounded education in artistic theory and practice.
The program is global in many senses of the word. We look to the whole world, without privileging one geographical space over another. We are rigorous in the study of all realms of creative expression, from film screen to dance club, from ritual and touristic practice to museum and concert hall. Our faculty of music scholars and art historians helps students refine the skills they need to critically engage culturally diverse media. Lecture courses, seminars, studio classes, and ensembles are designed to explore creative processes and material connections. Working closely with faculty, our students conduct original research and acquire nuanced insights into both sonic and visual realms. Students further deepen their understanding of global arts through hands-on training in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, music, and dance in a variety of cultures and media. They develop professional skills by participating in community-based events, curating exhibitions, managing the UC Merced Art Gallery, and organizing and performing in recitals, concerts, and multimedia presentations.
The new GASP major is live and open to the class of 2019 and later. If you have questions about the major, please feel free to contact David Kaminsky, the GASP undergraduate advisor, during his office hours or by email. We highly recommend that students interested in the major take the courses GASP 2: Introduction to Music Studies and GASP 3: Introduction to Visual Studies.