Art History

The following art history courses, which should be taken in sequence, complement the Foundation studio courses: The Dimensions of Art (Art 1905), Art History Survey I (Art 1906), and Art History Survey II (Art 1907). These courses deal with the study of prominent artworks and artists in the history of art throughout the world during certain time periods.

Art History courses examine artworks through elements of style and principles of organization. The courses also explore the social, political, religious and economic conditions of the culture that influence the production of art. They attempt to enhance students' awareness of humanity.

Art 1905 - The Dimensions of Art

This course serves as an introduction to the various ways of perceiving, discussing and analyzing works of art. The student will aim to increase a sensitivity, appreciation and awareness of critical aspects of art objects and their function in the world.

It is expected that the following information would be included in this course:

  1. Functions of Art
  2. Styles of Art
  3. Structure of Art (visual elements and principles of organization)
  4. Aesthetics
  5. Media (painting, sculpture, architecture, photography and film)
  6. Art Criticism

It is assumed that, at the discretion of the instructor, different topics may be covered in more or less depth than others.

Art 1906 - Art History Survey I

This course is a survey of the history of art from the Old Stone Age through the Gothic periods. Although it continues the approach to analyzing artworks used in Art 1905, it differs in its chronological approach to highlighting cultural periods. Topics for this course include both Western and non-Western art.

It is expected that much or all of the following information would be included in this course:

  1. Stone Age Art
  2. African Art
  3. Egyptian Art
  4. Ancient Near Eastern Art
  5. Aegean Art
  6. Greek Art
  7. Etruscan and Roman Art
  8. Early Christian Art
  9. Early Medieval Art
  10. Romanesque Art
  11. Gothic Art

It is assumed that, at the discretion of the instructor, the number and types of topics presented may vary; for example, African Art may be substituted with another non-Western art tradition.

Art 1907 - Art History Survey II

This course is a survey of the history of art from the Renaissance to modern times. Although it continues the approach to analyzing artworks used in Art 1905 and 1906, it differs in its chronological approach to highlighting cultural periods

It is expected that much or all of the following information would be included in this course:

  1. Proto-Renaissance Art
  2. Renaissance Art
  3. Baroque Art
  4. 18th Century Art
  5. 19th Century Art
  6. 20th Century Art
  7. Contemporary Art

It is assumed that, at the discretion of the instructor, the number and types of topics presented may vary.