Dustin Aaron

Dustin Aaron is a Lecturer in Fine Arts at Brandeis University and an Assistant Professor at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). His scholarship examines the intersections of medieval art and architecture with colonialism and environmental history, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe.

• Current Positions:
  • Lecturer in Fine Arts, Department of Fine Arts, Brandeis University
  • Assistant Professor, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

Education:

• B.A., Brandeis University
• M.A., University of London
• M.Phil., New York University

Aaron’s research investigates how medieval art and craft practices shaped perceptions of colonized landscapes as 'wilderness' and analyzes the historiographic legacy of Ostforschung. His work on medieval colonization, memory, and political medievalisms has been published in venues like The Art Bulletin. He is currently completing a book on craft and premodern colonialism.

Grants and Affiliations:

• Supported by the Medieval Academy of America, Samuel H. Kress Foundation, German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Central European History Society, and Remarque Institute
• Organizational affiliations include Brandeis University, RISD, and academic societies focused on medieval and colonial studies

His teaching covers medieval art, architecture, illuminated manuscripts, environmental art history, and the historical roles of art in premodern race and colonialism.