ARTH 216 - Nature Through Many Lenses: A Cross-Cultural Exploration of the More-than-Human World

ARTS 216 FDR: HA
Experiential Learning (EXP): Yes
Credits: 4

In this class we will explore how different artistic traditions have interfaced with the natural world. Team-taught by an art historian and a painter, the class includes diverse projects drawn from both disciplines. Each week is structured around a different art historical tradition. We will study depictions of the natural world in Arab, Persian, and Mughal painting traditions, Japanese byobu screens, women’s contributions to European scientific illustration, and Hudson River School plein-air painting. These units will blend art historical lectures, discussions, readings, and research with related studio art exercises. Studio art activities will include workshops on miniature painting, gold leaf, cyanotypes, botanical illustration, and painting from life outdoors. The class will also include a field trip to the Oak Spring Garden Foundation in Upperville, VA, to visit their rare books library, artist-in-residence program, and gardens. The term will culminate in a collaborative exhibition for students to present both their art works and art historical contexts for their work.