Art 468
Stereotypes Assignment

Due: Images are to be brought to class on January 25 and final paper is due January 31 at beginning of class
Value: Self-discovery, critical thinking, application of course material to "real life," and 15% of total grade (PLEASE NOTE THAT GRAD STUDENTS DO NOT COMPLETE THIS ASSIGNMENT

First:      Read the assigned essays for the stereotypes section of the course. Complete the reading responses. Absorb and think about the history of Appalachian images presented and discussed in class.

Second:  Find a visual image that you feel depicts a particular concept about "Appalachia," or its arts, cultures, or people. This may be drawn from the world wide web, popular magazines, tourism materials, movie promotions/trailers, comics, etc. Cut the image out, or scan it, or photocopy it, and bring it to class for discussion on January 25.

Finally: Write a 2-3 page typed, double spaced essay, which MUST include the following for full credit:

Does your image represent a common stereotype of "Appalachia"? If so, what is the specific history of this particular stereotype? (Here you can refer to course lectures/discussion/film, but you must also incorporate your stereotype readings in order to give full historical context of this stereotype).

What is the probable audience for your image (i.e. what is the source of your image and who is likely to frequent that "source")? What do you think is appealing/useful about this image for this audience/viewer? Does it fulfill any of the purposes cited by Shelby? If so, explain.

How might this image impact expectations viewers might have of the arts and culture of the region?

How do you personally react to this image and why?