Time Schedule:
Cynthea J. Bogel
ART H 215
Seattle Campus
Survey of Japanese art from prehistory to the present. Focuses on selected works of paintings, sculpture, calligraphy, architecture, gardens, and manga while considering themes such as art forms, techniques, patronage, religious beliefs and practice, relationship to other Asian traditions, modernity and tradition, and ideas of representation in ancient Japan.
Class description
Same as the "official description."
Student learning goals
Students will have an overview of Japanese history, culture, visual culture, art, and religion.
Students will learn to describe and compare Japanese art works.
Students will understand the differences between "art" as defined by European traditions and Asian traditions.
Students will be able to discuss Buddhist icons, rituals, and temples.
Students will be able to discuss the major schools of painting in Japanese history.
Although the course is an overview, certain themes will be emphasized such as cultural exchange with Korea and China, Buddhist arts and temples, techniques and materials of art making, patronage or society and art, and the meaning of the term "art" in Japan.
General method of instruction
Lectures by the professor on M, W, F. Sections with graduate students in art history on T and/or Th (each week varies) with discussion of themes and course material. Museum visits are also a part of this class.
Recommended preparation
None but a willingness to learn a new cultural history, Japanese words and concepts, and the skills required for analyzing the appearance and history of art objects or Buddhist icons.
Class assignments and grading
Two exams plus a short paper or three exams (multiple choice and short essays). Depending on the art works on display, there may be a museum assignment on a work of art (short paper) instead of one exam. Sections may require written responses to questions and study themes.
Performance on the above and participation in sections.
