Dr. Kaja Mcgowan

Associate Professor

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Biography

Kaja M. McGowan is an Associate Professor at Cornell University in the Department of History of Art and Visual Studies. Her research primarily focuses on South and Southeast Asia, with a particular interest in Indonesia, especially Java and Bali. McGowan examines the historical Indic orientations and reciprocal cultural exchanges within the broader Southeast Asian context. Her research investigates the flow of ideas and artifacts across geographical and historical distances, analyzing the intersections of art history with anthropology, material culture, and post-colonial theory. She is currently working on a book project titled 'Fertile Currencies,' which explores the commonalities and divergences within the discipline of art history in Southeast Asia. Additionally, her book 'Borrowing Paradise,' published by Pegasus Press in 2023, investigates the ritualized use of taxidermy in Balinese culture.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

— Present

Cornell University • Ithaca, NY

Teaching and researching in the Department of History of Art and Visual Studies.

Requirements for Cornell University

Master Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:15
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Architecture or related field
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Portfolio (SlideRoom)
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Department of Architecture