This introductory class explores the production, dissemination and consumption of art, architecture, and visual culture up to and including the 1600s. In a series of case studies drawn from differing cultures and geographies both local and global, it will consider a range of questions including: What is the role of the artist, builder and designer in society? What are the media, genres and contexts for communicating thought, and how and when do they engage in cultural, social and political action (if they do)? What does it take for art and visual culture to open up a space for relating to the world we live in, differently? How does the study of art, architecture and visual culture from the past generate curiosity, expand understandings, and ask new questions, in the present moment? This class will engage with these and other demanding questions. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hours
This introductory class explores the production, dissemination and consumption of art, architecture, and visual culture up to and including the 1600s. In a series of case studies drawn from differing cultures and geographies both local and global, it will consider a range of questions including: What is the role of the artist, builder and designer in society? What are the media, genres and contexts for communicating thought, and how and when do they engage in cultural, social and political action (if they do)? What does it take for art and visual culture to open up a space for relating to the world we live in, differently? How does the study of art, architecture and visual culture from the past generate curiosity, expand understandings, and ask new questions, in the present moment? This class will engage with these and other demanding questions. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hours
