ARTS 116: History of Western Art I (3 units)

Andrea Lam, Adjunct Professor of Art, History and Painting

Description

A survey of Western art and architecture that explores painting, sculpture, architecture, and small-scale arts from prehistoric times to the early Renaissance. Introduces key works of Western art, discussing their styles, meanings, and artistic techniques as well as historical contexts. Discusses the role of art in religious and political contexts, the impact of trade and the economy on art, and the relationship between texts and images. No fee.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have:

Understood the major epochs of Western art history and be able to identify their distinctive contributions to Western culture
The knowledge and vocabulary necessary to discuss and write about art, including artistic techniques, styles, and materials of past artists and cultures
Learned to distinguish various periods of visual art and to contextualize each era’s artistic and architectural achievements
Grasped the complex process by which art is changed and reflected by religion, culture, politics, and history
Understood various ways in which historical artistic and architectural works influence the creation and interpretation of contemporary artistic culture

Course Format

Conducted online over 16 weeks in alignment with Biola University’s 2012 Fall semester. Students will interact with the instructor and each other through interactive online discussions and other assignments.

Required Reading

Kleiner, Fred, and Helen Gardner. Gardner's Art Through the Ages: The Western Perspective. 13th ed. Boston, MA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2010.

Assignments

Interactive online discussions (25%)
Quizzes (15%)
Reading journal (10%)
Two 5-page, museum-based writing projects (50%)

Prerequisites

None

Relation to Curriculum

Meets GE Fine Arts requirement