Amy Nygaard

Amy Nygaard is an Assistant Professor of Art History and Director of Museum Studies at the University of St. Thomas. Her interdisciplinary PhD research analyzed trauma and violence in contemporary South African artist Jane Alexander's work, examining intersections of art, politics, and post-apartheid nation-building.

Research focuses on:

• Whiteness and trauma in cultural production
• Postcolonial museum practices
• South African National Gallery collection policies
• Trauma-informed heritage management

She develops curricula integrating trauma-informed practices for museum professionals and leads initiatives examining how political rhetoric shapes art institutions.