Course Description
Explores the relationship between the creative arts and human values, ideas, and emotions. Theme of "getting lost" in the creative process, which leads to discovery and insight—the accidental masterpiece.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- Demonstrate an increased knowledge of artists, art practices, and exhibition venues discussed in the readings.
- Read, appreciate and critically assess contemporary writing about art.
- Communicate ideas in a clear, coherent and well-written manner in styles appropriate for critical reviews, opinion essays, and art analyses.
- See and think more expansively about art and its relationship to life.
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Weekly discussion assignments | 10 points per discussion |
| Final Paper | 100 points |
Grades will be determined using an 8 point scale (100-92 points A+ - A-; 91-83 points B+ - B-; 82-74 C+ - C-; 73-65 points D+ - D-; 64 and below F).
Attendance/Participation:
Regular participation in online threaded discussions is a very important component of this course. Discussions provide you with opportunities to demonstrate your understanding of the reading assignments and interact with classmates and the instructor in a learning community.
You must submit all assignments on time. Late postings will not receive full credit. Missing assignments in this class is equivalent to non-attendance.
It is your responsibility to “go to class” and complete the assignments within the time that is allotted. The class is divided into seven units that roughly correspond to the seven weeks of the term. Because of the intensity of the term and the nature of the course requirements, it is strongly recommended that you spend some time working on the class each day. Manage your time and responsibilities wisely.
If you are confronted with an unforeseen emergency or personal situation that is impeding your progress in the class please notify the instructor immediately.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
- Kimmelman, Michael. The Accidental Masterpiece: On the Art of Life and Vice Versa. New York: Penguin Press, 2005.
- Solnit, Rebecca. A Field Guide to Getting Lost. New York: Viking Press, 2005.
- Grizzly Man. Dir. Werner Herzog. Discovery Docs, Lions Gate Films, 2005.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.