Discussion 1

Part I has four sections. First briefly explain what primarily distinguishes Renaissance art in general from the prior Medieval period. Then, trace the evolution and development of art through the periods of the Early Renaissance to the High Renaissance. Compare and contrast the work of an Italian Renaissance artist with a work done by a northern European Renaissance artist. Include a discussion of the different concerns and heritages of the Italian and Northern Renaissance artists and how these resulted in different characteristics in the art work of each region. Be sure to use the new art vocabulary you are learning as you describe the art works. Use specific examples of art in your response.

Part II: Compare and contrast two works of art done in two different eras/styles. Select from the following pairs of eras/styles: Medieval and Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo, Rococo and Neoclassical. Include an overview of what primarily distinguishes the art work of each era, and then indicate specific formal or thematic aspects of each work that typify its era. Include a discussion of the role of changing cultural and political climates in influencing the shift from on style to the next. You may choose two paintings, two sculptural works, or two architectural works. Be sure to use the terminology regarding elements of art and principles of design that we studied in Unit I as you proceed in your discussion. Select specific art works and provide page numbers or links.

Discussion 2

Part I: In Islamic culture, there are certain religious restrictions on use of imagery and representation of human or animal forms is forbidden in many art forms. As a result, Islamic art has developed highly sophisticated abstract, geometric, and linear decorative elements. Compare and contrast this aspect of Islamic art with art of another culture we have studied (your choice) that is centrally concerned with pictorial representations of iconic figures or realistic depictions of historical events or realistic situations. In your discussion, consider the various elements of art and design principles covered in Unit I of this course. As always, use specific examples of art.

Part II: Compare the art works of two artists from any two different art movements covered in Chapter 21. Describe, then compare, the contexts, concerns and main aspects of each movement and how that appears in the works you’ve selected. Be sure to explain why you made your particular choices of movements, artists and artworks. Evaluating the artwork you’ve selected according to any criteria you think are relevant (given what you have learned so far in the course). Be sure to use specific examples of art works in your discussion.