Time Schedule:
Bonnie M. Mitchell
ART H 317
Seattle Campus
History, theory, and practice of chado, or Way of Tea, a Zen-inspired art that has had notable effects on Japanese society. Lectures on esthetics and cultural history supplemented by participation in chado, with the goal of developing sufficient understanding and skill to continue chado as a discipline.
Class description
The course traces the evolution of tea drinking in Japan from the monastic ritual imported from China and an amusement among the early Samurai to its culmination as an aesthetic and ethical discipline which has had profound influence on the arts of Japan since the 16th Century through the “Wabi” ideal of beauty and the spirit of Zen. Movements of guest and host, the aesthetics of the tea setting and utensils are experienced first hand in the studio. Weekly lecture: Tuesdays, 2:30-4:20 (first week only: two lectures- Tuesday and Wednesday), weekly studio (off campus): choice of Wednesday or Thursday, 2:45-5pm.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Weekly lecture explores the history and aesthetics of the way of tea through talks, slides, and films. Studio sessions acquaint students with actual tearoom practices through one-on-one instruction and performance of the roles of guest and host and interaction with classmates.
Recommended preparation
The ability to sit, Japanese-style, on the Tatami floor is required. Experience in Japanese language, culture, or art history is useful but not necessary.
Class assignments and grading
Required reading in _Tea in Japan_ (available in Art Library) and studio handbook (available from instructor) supports both lecture material and studio practice .
Results of mid-term and final exams, studio performance and attendance at lectures and studios.
