SURF

Amaris Blasgen Morningstar

Symbolism and Globalism in Bronze Age Art

The world we live in today is shaped by globalism. There is more exchange of ideas, artwork, and technology than ever before. We travel, inspire each other and use symbolism to transcend language and cultural barriers. However, is this really a new phenomena? Archaeological research constantly uncovers more evidence that humanity has been doing this for millennia. The Eastern Mediterranean Basin had an extensive network for the movement of goods, people and ideas between the civilizations of the Near East since before the Bronze Age. My research investigates the affect of this rudimentary globalism on people, as expressed through art and symbolism left in the material record of the Early Bronze Age in Cyprus. Cyprus was a center of trade, and I predict that I will find evidence of differentiation between private and publicly used items which are reflective of a multicultural worldview. I will look for hints of individual decision making and development of motifs. I believe combining scientific investigation with the viewpoint of an artist can reveal different perspectives about Bronze Age Mediterranean artists, and the interconnected world in which they lived.

Message to Sponsor

I would like to express my deepest thanks to the Leadership Fund for giving me the opportunity to grow as a scholar this summer. As a result of time under the mentorship of SURF, I have grown from an undergraduate student with vague hopes and ideas of my future plans, into a confident graduating senior with solid plans for graduate work and career direction. I was able to crystalize nebulous dreams into focused academic goals that I am very excited to pursue, and believe in myself that these dreams can come true with hard work and diligence. Through my mentors, I was introduced to a world of graduate level studies and research encompassing all of my interests and goals. Rather than seeing my varied interests as competing, I now see that my artistic background, interests in ethnography, archaeology and the interaction of modern people within their ancient landscapes are all things that make me a unique, well-rounded and focused scholar who has a place amongst the academic community. My experience as a SURF scholar has propelled me forward into my future and I hope that I can be a valuable part of the discipline of Anthropology as we navigate an uncertain and complicated future as humanity. Thank you Leadership Fund for providing me with one of the most important summers of my life as an Anthropologist.
  • Major: Anthropology
  • Sponsor: Leadership Fund
  • Mentor: Lisa Maher