We are pleased to announce that our senior full-time Art research professor, Dr. Monika Schwaerzler-Brodesser has accepted the position as Art/Visual Culture Department head replacing Barbara Hillerman who retired in June 2011.

Monika has taught a variety of courses at Webster, including "Introduction to Visual Literacy," "Art Theory and Criticism," "Art, Business, and Visual Culture," and "The Contemporary Museum." Monika's scholarly contributions are centered on “Visual Culture”. She is particularly interested in the use of images in society, the media and in the realities that visuals create. Her research shows strong links with literature, philosophy and psychoanalysis. A considerable number of her publications focus on photography, the history of photography and media theory. Over the past two years she has also served on the Research Faculty Council.  

“Monika will be able to build on the work the art department has accomplished under the auspices of Barbara Hillerman. Barbara has closely worked with her group of faculty (researchers, artists, curators, etc.) in successfully leading the department through two accreditations and in letting Webster students acquire excellent preparation for careers in the arts. Her dedication and passion in establishing the art program at Webster Vienna have been exemplary and I believe Monika can carry that forward. I am confident that Monika will bring her enthusiasm for education and curricular development as well as her open-mindedness and collaborative spirit to her new assignment.”

Dr. Arthur Hirsh, Director Webster University Vienna