Paleolithic Venuses: Artistic Representations of Women with Dr. Guillaume Durand
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Our interactive conversation will provide a unique opportunity to contextualize the multiple interpretations of these statuettes and link together the new interpretations from the recent methodology of Gender studies. After a brief presentation of Paleolithic art and lifestyle, we will focus on several discoveries bringing to light not only the artistic representation but also the potential symbolisms hidden behind in order to reconstruct as much as possible the way of life of women during this time period. We will particularly focus on the Venus of Willendorf, discovered in Austria, the Venuses of Laussel, and Brassempouy, both discovered in France, in addition to many others.
Led by Guillaume Durand, Ph.D. this discussion will provide an in-depth exploration of this specific category of portable art and how we reconstruct past women's lives and activities. Designed to inform curiosity and future travels, participants will come away with increased knowledge and understanding of what is considered one of the very first artistic testimony of humankind.
Interested in learning more? We invite you to join us for Prehistoric Cave Artworks in Southern France and Beyond
Passionate about the regions and countries at the crossroad of civilizations, Guillaume Durand Ph.D. has long standing expertise in Ancient art and archaeology of the Eastern Mediterranean Basin. Assistant dean and professor in archaeology and art history at the Institute for American Universities and the American College of the Mediterranean in Aix-en-Provence, France, Guillaume has traveled many times in Iran during these six past years in order to study the Persian Empires. He is also a tourist guide / lecturer in this country for French citizens.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
This is an overdue review for the April class! Love the topic and the presentation surpassed my expectations. It was helpful to view the wider European context on maps - and to learn the history of discoveries as well as the continuing evolution of how they're interpreted. This was my second talk by Dr Durand and I'm already signed up for more.
I always enjoy Dr. Durand’s talks, for both his excellent presentations and his enthusiasm. This one combined a broad overview with some myth-busting, good for people with limited knowledge of the subject matter. Nicely detailed answers to participants’ questions as well.
A great seminar on magnificent pieces of art that still moves us after millennia!