This semester, associate professor Ittai Weinryb launched a new course, The Material Culture of Hope. The seminar explores the field of historical research concerned with the history of emotions. By looking at artifacts, objects, and art, Weinryb said he and his students are trying “to construct a field of material culture in which emotions play a central role, hope being one of them.” He explained that “examples vary from votive offerings to memorials, and from religious rituals and performances to civic ones.” The course includes numerous visits to many of New York City’s museums and collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Jewish Museum, the New York Public Library, and the Morgan Library. In addition, the class recently paid a visit to the Hindu Temple Society of America where they learned of life and worship at the temple and later enjoyed a traditional lunch at the temple canteen. Weinryb hopes that through these experiences and studies, students will uncover an uncharted chapter in the history of art and design.