Winterthur Institute

Fall Session 2009
September 21-October 2, 2009
Application Deadline: July 27, 2009

Winter Session 2010
January 17 - January 29, 2010
Application Deadline: November 16, 2008

Escape into the world of the 17th, 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries for Winterthur's Fall Session 2009 (September 21–October 2) and Winter Session 2010 (January 17–29). These intensive courses of study offer an in-depth two-week study of the domestic furnishings made or used in America and appeal to individuals interested in American decorative arts. Content for the course centers on the Winterthur collection, the world's largest assemblage of decorative arts made or used in America between 1640 and 1860, and resources in the Winterthur library. Sessions take place in the classrooms, period rooms, and exhibition areas of Winterthur. The courses also include field trips to local historic sites.

Classes are held five days a week from approximately 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Each day begins with lectures by Winterthur staff and/or guest speakers. Most afternoon programs are conducted in museum period rooms or with artifacts in classrooms. Guide specialists lead groups of five in "room studies," and workshops are small to allow close examination of the objects.

During the program, participants may take special-subject tours in the museum, which allow in-depth study of particular styles and media. The cost of these optional activities is included in the tuition fee.

Participants will have time to undertake small research projects while attending Winter Session and Fall Session, and they are encouraged to become familiar with the Winterthur Library facilities during scheduled free time.