ARTH1101 Introduction to Art

Credit Hours: 3 semester hours

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the visual arts, encompassing the world of Western and Non-Western art. This course deals with the principles of art, formal and contextual elements, as well as the basic vocabulary necessary to articulate educated opinions about the arts and art history. A studio component allows the students hands on experience that encourages communication through the visual arts.

Goals and Objectives

The goals of this course are as follows:

• Introduction to works of art that illustrate the high achievements of Western and Non-Western cultures and eras

• Greater understanding of the nature and functions of art as process more than commodity

• Stronger recognition of connections between artmaking/appreciation and personal fulfillment

• More personal identification and practice with behaviors/attitudes associated with artists

• Deeper sense of rewarding engagement of art and life

• Enhanced awareness of personal potential and the relevance of life-long learning

• Heightened self-awareness, confidence, and creative resourcefulness

• Increased openness to alternative viewpoints and unconventional thinking

Students who complete this course will be able to:

• Enhanced observational skills as reveled in response papers, class discussions, and basic drawing/painting exercises

• Greater awareness of design elements and principles in art and nature, as demonstrated in response papers, discussions, and artworks

• Increased familiarity with materials and processes commonly used in art, as indicated in writings, discussions, and studio applications

• Enhanced knowledge of significant artists and achievements in their historical/cultural contexts

• Heightened authority in using attainable drawing skills to enhance and document creative/perceptual breakthroughs

• Stronger critical thinking skills

• Higher proficiency and comfort levels in communicating art concepts within small groups and whole class activities

Books Needed

• Book: A World of Art, eighth edition, author Henry M. Sayre

Materials Needed

• *Adequate technology- Internet connectivity, microphone and camera for streaming

• Pens and pencils (common graphite)

• Unlined paper/140 lb. sketch/watercolor/ or mixed media paper (at least 9 X 12 in.)

• Eight-color watercolor set and brush

• Various art/craft supplies such as glue sticks, colored pencils, ruler, scissors- additional supplies such as markers, craft paint, larger drawing/painting surfaces, construction paper/collage materials, etc. may be used according to student preferences and motivational levels