Art history: a guide to basic research resources

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present basic resources and practical strategies for undergraduate art history research.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on the author's experience as both an art librarian and instructor for a core requirement art history course.FindingsThe plan detailed in this paper covers every step of the research process, from exploring the topic to citing the sources. The resources listed, which include subscription databases as well as public web sites, are deliberately limited to a manageable number. Additional topics include defining the scope of inquiry and making appropriate use of internet resources such as Wikipedia.Originality/valueThe paper provides the academic librarian with clear guidance on basic research resources in art history.

Wikipedia in the eyes of its beholders: A systematic review of scholarly research on Wikipedia readers and readership

“…Other scholars were more cautious in their appraisal of Wikipedia and pointed out some challenges that its use presents scholars. In her paper about conducting art history research, Chena () recommended caution in using Wikipedia: “the content of the Wikipedia article can be used as tips for possible approaches to this object, but not as a source for the actual paper” (2009, p. 123). Knapp () discussed the challenges that arise from citing amorphous web sources such as Wikipedia, where the source materials are constantly changing.…”