Time Schedule:
Robin K Wright
ART H 433
Seattle Campus
Stylistic and historical analysis of northern Northwest Coast art (Haida, Tlingit, Tsimshian, Northern Wakashan). Intensive analysis of formline rules; stylistic variation through time and between tribal and individual artists' styles. Recommended: some background in Native American art, history, languages, or literature.
Class description
This course will provide methods for understanding the northern Northwest Coast two-dimensional design system of the Heiltsuk, Haida, Tsimshian and Tlingit peoples. The vocabulary and grammar that govern their visual language will be studied with the goal of distinguishing stylistic changes through time and differences between tribal and individual artists' styles. Northern Northwest Coast weaving styles and techniques will also be examined as they relate to two-dimensional design.
Student learning goals
Knowledge of the terminology for and conventions governing the northern Northwest Coast two-dimensional formline design system.
Understanding of the stylistic variations through time and between neighboring tribal groups.
Ability to distinguish between different artists' styles.
Familiarity with the current scholarship in the field of northern Northwest Coast Native American art history.
Knowledge of various northern Northwest Coast weaving techniques.
General method of instruction
Slide illustrated lectures and class discussion.
Recommended preparation
Some background in Native American and Northwest Coast Native art is recommended.
Class assignments and grading
Reading assignments, participation in class discussion, pop quizzes, a short paper, a formline design project, midterm and final exams.
20% Midterm (200 pts.) 15% Class participation (150 pts.) 20% Design Project (200 pts.) 20% Short Paper (200 pts.) 25% Final exam (250 pts.)
