COURSE DESCRIPTION:  

Journey through time and place while examining some of the greatest masterpieces created. In this course, students will explore world regions and study the unique art and architecture that defines the Medieval and Renaissance periods. From Leonardo da Vinci to the Taj Mahal, participants will learn the fundamental concepts of art, how to look at and evaluate art, and the intended function of art museums through hands-on activities, discussions, written assignments, and objective assessments.

COURSE OBJECTIVES: 

After completing the course, students will be able to:

• Understand and explain the significance of artworks produced in various world regions
• Understand and explain the significance of artworks produced in various world regions
• Converse with others about art and the function of artifacts and architectural structures in relation to ancient cultural conditions
• Understand the mission of natural history museums and how museum staff interprets acquisitions
• Analyze works, placing them in historical, social, and cultural context
• Create hands-on activities demonstrating an understanding of the construction of ancient architecture and techniques used by ancient artisans

PREREQUISITES:

None

COURSE LENGTH:

One semester

REQUIRED TEXT:

None

COURSE OUTLINE:

• Orientation: Introduction to art appreciation, getting started, timeline of Medieval/Renaissance history
• What is Art?: Art vs. artifact, careers, art criticism
• Medieval Europe: Gothic architecture
• Art of Africa and Islamic Art: Ife and Benin sculpture, African ancestral masks, mosques, Arabic calligraphy and textiles
• India, China, and Japan: Taj Mahal, Hindu art, literary painting, Forbidden City, tea ceremony
• The Americas: Tenochtitlan, Machu Picchu, Native American basketry and textiles
• Italian Renaissance: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Boticelli, Gentileschi
• Northern and Spanish Renaissance: Velazquez, van Eyck, Rembrandt, Durer, Vermeer, Ruysch
• Museums: Art museums, mission of museums, careers