Because of this class, I am now interested more than ever about the role of servants in 18th century France, but more broadly, underrepresented groups in art history generally. Groups who have been denied a voice – like servants – continue to be lost in a narrative defined by those in power: the elite, the wealthy, the majority–in essence, the “winners.” There is a reason why the phrase “History is written by the victors” was coined.

Today, representation of minority groups in art continues to be significantly lacking; within the Metropolitan Museum of Art alone, one can count on one hand the number of servants that can be found displayed on the walls. And of these, many are also the sole representations of racial minorities within the entire institution. And while that’s not at all surprising, being able to speak about – and, I hope, on behalf of – servants, I’ve come to realize how much progress we have yet to make in how we represent various marginalized or subjugated groups.

Because of the Virtual Enlightenment seminar, I’ve been able to come to these conclusions, and have had the opportunity to think more globally about the role of museums in the world today. I cannot help but wonder how can someone feel a connection to art if the sole representations of people who they most resemble are in subordinate positions, and generally few and far between?

I believe that this is a clear gap in the greater art history narrative, and I am delighted that I have been able begin exploring this topic through this new seminar. I’ve learned a lot through this course, both inside the classroom and within the walls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and in both a traditional learning setting and incorporating the digital humanities. I’m not sure how many other institutions would have provided me with this much freedom to experiment, try, learn, and have success as well as failures. After all, isn’t that the the point of studying at a liberal arts institution like Barnard, that are willing to provide their students with the tools to create innovative projects such as this?