Elaine O'Brien

Art 7 :: Introduction to Art and Visual Culture

I'm always wondering, is it the artist
who gives the work power?
Is it the viewer?
—Janine Antoni, artist

Course Description

For the general education student who wants to explore the world of art and visual culture. A wide range of multicultural, historical, and contemporary art works, art media, art history, art ideas, and art practices are presented through illustrated lectures, discussions, field trips, guest lectures, studio visits, and beginning-level art projects.

Course Objectives

• expanded understanding of art and visual culture
• increased knowledge of the makers, objects, processes, reception, social bases, historical contexts of art, Western and non-Western, past and present
• the development of personal esthetic judgment and open-mindedness
• improved visual literacy
• improved visual vocabulary – the words needed to describe, analyze, and critically question art and visual culture
• understanding of how art is made in a variety of media
• ability to research and write about art and art issues
• appreciation of historical and contemporary global (and local) art and visual culture in all its multiplicity. Since contemporary art is my area of expertise and the most pertinent to our experience, it is emphasized. You will learn to appreciate why the best art of our time can intend to disturb and offend you.
• deeper appreciation of freedom of expression
• insight into your creative role as viewer
• insight into the profound, and often hidden impact of institutional and commercial visual culture