ART 100 - Survey of Western Art

This course is an introduction to the study of art and its history from prehistoric times to the present in Western Europe and in the context of a global perspective. We will examine art history as a field of cultural production, looking at objects and architecture from diverse cultures, ranging from neolithic Çatalhöyük, Turkey to ancient Sumer, ancient Egypt to Renaissance Italy, and sixteenth-century Benin, Africa to Islamic Spain. Through readings, research, images, and videos, we will consider various topics, such as artists and their creative practices, the role of politics, religion, culture, and gender in art, as well as issues of repatriation. Students leave this class with a foundation in the main concepts, procedures, and relevant vocabulary employed by art historians, as well as a solid grasp of important works and eras. Writing is a critical component of this course, as we describe, formally analyze, and compare works.

Satisfies the Visual and Performing Arts requirement.

Prerequisites & Notes
(Fall and Spring)