Cher
- MA in History of Art (Medieval Art and Medievalisms) (full-time)
What are your research interests / what are you working on?
"My research interests include the medieval cult of saints and relics. I’m specifically interested in the construct of viewing practices and sacred space pertinent to relic display. I’m currently researching the medieval cult of St Ursula and the 11,000 Virgins of Cologne by comparing the simultaneous display of reliquary busts and skull relics in religious ceremonies."
What modules have been most fascinating and why?
"To be honest every module I took was immensely fascinating! I absolutely loved Painting on Light with Tim Ayers and Art and Imagery in York Minster with Sarah Brown. Both of these courses incorporated several on-site seminars which greatly enriched the learning experience. These tutors are both incredibly knowledgeable and are well versed at bringing to life the medieval past."
What background do you come to HoA from and why HoA?
"I have a Bachelor’s Degree in the History of Art and Visual Culture from the University of Santa Cruz, California. I then worked as a course assistant in that department and subsequently as the undergraduate advisor. After surveying all aspects of academia, I now know for certain my interests reside on the education side. I love the interdisciplinary nature of the field and the ways in which you can connect the past with current traditions and ways of seeing."
Why York rather than somewhere else?
"As an American medievalist, I wanted to complete my degree at a university with a well-versed medieval staff. I was also drawn by the interdisciplinary nature of the Centre for Medieval Studies and the breadth of recognised speakers who stop in York. York has a rich medieval past itself and it is in close proximity to other medieval centres and world-renowned museums and archives."
How has your experience at York broadened your horizons as an art historian?
"It has been wonderful to engage with material at a graduate level, one that inspires critical and independent thought. Networking with the staff and visiting lecturers has also been very beneficial."
Do you find there’s a strong group atmosphere among the students?
"Yes, I’ve been very pleased with the 2012-13 cohort. The students are very diverse and each make unique contributions to the group. Though due to the nature of the course students tend to work on their own, there has still been a friendly, casual group atmosphere among us."
What’s the level of support like from staff and the department as a whole, are they receptive to feedback?
"I have felt very supported by the staff in the program. They are all quick to respond to inquiries and very willing to help. The periodic check-in meetings with the graduate chair, Tim Ayers, have all been helpful as well."
What’s been your favourite study trip and why?
"I enjoyed all of the study trips but I think the most exciting was the trip to Durham Cathedral for the Romanesque Art and Architecture module. Michele did a fantastic job discussing the structure and highlighting the architectural anomalies. I think on-site visits for architectural studies are especially useful in bringing the topic to life."
What do you feel is the most important thing you will take away from your experience at York?
"The connections made within the academic community. I will also leave with a renewed, scholarly approach to the field and a Master’s Degree!"
What would your dream job be?
"I would like to lead international art and cultural tours for college/life-learner students. Ideally I would like to work during the year as tutor and lead tours during term breaks."
