The 39th Annual Cleveland Symposium, to be held at the Cleveland Museum of Art on October 11, 2013, invites graduate submissions examining the theme of splendor in the visual arts. This symposium aims to explore how works of art are elevated to become objects that are prized or venerated. Specifically, in discussing the value afforded a work, we seek to further understand its historical context, materiality, visibility, agenda, and cultural significance, whether through the object’s physicality or representational function. The grandeur and renown of a work can also manifest itself through its associations, patrons, and/or esteemed artists.

Possible topics might include:
  • Material value of object(s), attributed upon creation or retroactively
  • The use of costly or precious mediums and components
  • Public, private, royal, and civic commissions
  • Decorative arts
  • Reliquaries and other objects with religious functions
  • Artist markets and trade
  • Depictions of important political or religious events
  • Pomp, pageantry, and ceremony
  • Gifts, personal or diplomatic
We welcome submissions from art history and architecture graduate students in all stages of their studies and from all fields and geographic regions, ranging from ancient through contemporary art. We will also consider papers from a wide range of methodologies and approaches. A monetary prize graciously underwritten by The Cleveland Friends of Art will be awarded to the speaker who presents the most innovative research in the most successfully delivered paper.

To be considered, please send a 250-word abstract, recent CV, graduate level, and contact information to clevelandsymposium@gmail.com by June 1, 2013.