Transcript title

Intro to the Visual Arts

Credits

4

Grading mode

Standard letter grades

Total contact hours

40

Lecture hours

40

Course Description

Introduces approaches to the understanding and appreciation of the visual arts. Provides a foundation in the basic concepts, vocabulary of the elements and principles of design as well as materials, methods and processes. A wide variety of artworks are explored. May include some hands-on experience with various mediums.

Course learning outcomes

1. Display ability to discuss formal and aesthetic qualities through identification of Elements and Principles of Design in approaching and describing works of art.
2. Identify and explain various materials and methods/processes used in the creation of various mediums of two-dimensional and three-dimensional artworks.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the historical development of self-chosen or assigned mediums and/or processes of the visual arts.
4. Demonstrate critical thinking skills and use research sources in evaluating and analyzing a work (or works) of art with consideration of art and the larger context: historical, cultural and sociological.
5. Interpret a work (or works) of art in terms of content/meaning: what the artist intended, the interpretation of others, and one’s own personal interpretation.
6. Participate in aesthetic engagement by way of a museum visit (virtually online OR actually on location).
7. Attain a wider appreciation of human expression through exposure to and consideration of a wide variety of art forms.
8. Gain enthusiasm for pursuing further art experiences: gallery and museum visits (such as planning a trip to Europe), hands-on studio art practice (such as taking a studio art class), and/or studies in the history of art, art theory or art criticism (such as signing up for a history of art class).

Content outline

1. Formal principles and elements of fine art
2. Basic terminology to describe works of art
3. Art media and artistic technique
4. Introduction to color theory
5. Symbolism and iconography
6. Historical, social, and political context
7. Social and Cultural influences; some topics include:
   1. Other peoples and their histories, values, and culture
   2. Art and economics
   3. Art and the social fabric
   4. Art and religion
   5. Art and politics
   6. Art and gender
8. Basic art making projects

Required materials

May require a textbook. See syllabus for details.

General education/Related instruction lists

• Arts and Letters