"A study of the American tradition of art and architecture from 1620 to early 20th century"
Additionally, this class will examine examples of art of the first Americans from prehistory to mid 20th century, the art of New Spain from 16th through 18th centuries, and the African heritage brought to North America in the 19th and 20th centuries. The student must have a solid grasp of American history and should develop an awareness of key issues in global history and art of the period.
Example: Slides: Acoma Mission church and Upjohn's Trinity church (Identify each work as fully as possible (artist, title, medium, period/date, country/region)
Essay: How did religion and European heritage influence regional architecture in the "new world"?
The term paper is your perception of how Los Angeles murals create an image of community through art. Select two murals, at least one from the San Fernando Valley. Give specific information on each mural, including artist's biography, date, site funding and community participation/resources. Describe the mural image in detail including subject, size, color, composition. Survey other viewers about its impact on them and on their community. Discuss how it fits into the larger image of American culture, and finally, why you think it is (or is not) art and American. The most recent and comprehensive book on Los Angeles murals is:
- Street Gallery: Guide to 1000 Los Angeles Murals, by Robin J. Dunitz, 1993.
- Additional resources: Social and Public Art Resource Center (310-822-9560) and the Mural Conservancy of Los Angeles, (213-481-1176).