María Castañeda Delgado

1.  How are you applying your degree in Art History from Concordia?

My degree in Art History gave me the tools to approach more critically every artwork or object I encounter as a conservator-restorer working with heritage, but more importantly, it gave me the skills to reflect upon the ethical and philosophical dimension of my own practice. This strengthened my ability to communicate my work in a professional environment as well as in academic publications.

During my graduate studies, I also had the opportunity to take courses that analyzed closely exhibitions and curatorial practices, as well as to be a teaching assistant for an undergraduate course on Art and the Museum. In these courses, I learned about the social dimension of museums but also about the politics behind their collecting practices, which provided me with a broad understanding of museum studies and collection objects from an interdisciplinary perspective.

2. What do you value most from your Art History experience?

One of the best things that the program in Art History provided me, was the opportunity to explore and expand on different methodologies– like new materialism, feminism, gender theory, and crafts– but also different artistic and cultural expressions. This was a chance to challenge myself beyond my expectations and areas of comfort, to ultimately come back to my scope of interest with a new lens.

I am also very grateful to my thesis advisor, Dr. Kristina Huneault, who nurtured my intellectual explorations every step of the way, as well as for encouraging me to do an independent research stay at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam thanks to the support of Concordia’s Graduate Mobility Award. The fieldwork that I carried out abroad was not only crucial to my research, but it was a great way to learn from specialists in my field of interest and to network internationally.

3. Is there a particular memory that stands out from your time at Concordia?

I think I will always cherish the discussions at the graduate seminars, not only because I enjoyed how professors guided the conversations and shared their expertise, but also because I learned a lot from my colleagues and their points of view. At these classrooms, I got to know not only future colleagues but great friends.

Another great memory for me was coordinating AHGSA’s Graduate Student Conference, which is a great opportunity to acquire professional skills, like applying for grants, writing budgets, and digital communications, as well as to develop a theme that the student community finds relevant to their academic growth.

4.  What advice would you give to someone considering graduate studies in Art History?

Take advantage of the different community groups at Concordia and get involved. It is a great opportunity to acquire new skills, exchange knowledge with your peers, and network with professionals working in different fields. The Fine Arts faculty and specifically the art history department offers some great talks, workshops, and seminars that can really enrich your academic development. This is a great way to know Montreal’s artistic and curatorial milieux.

There is also a lot of support from the department to do research with institutions outside campus. I would encourage you to get informed about the internships, fellowships, and other professional development programs you can apply to during the degree, but also to create your own opportunities and ask for the support you need.