The Florida State University (FSU) offers a wide range of art history courses that cater to the diverse interests and academic needs of its students. The Department of Art History at FSU is renowned for its rigorous and comprehensive programs, which provide students with a deep understanding of the visual arts and their cultural contexts. In this guide, we will explore the various art history courses offered at FSU, their content, and the skills and knowledge they impart to students.
Introduction to Art History
The introductory art history courses at FSU are designed to provide students with a broad overview of the subject, covering the major periods and styles of art from ancient to modern times. These courses, such as Introduction to Art History I and II, focus on the development of art and architecture in various cultures, including European, American, Asian, and African. Students learn to analyze and interpret works of art, understand the historical and cultural contexts in which they were created, and develop their critical thinking and writing skills. The formal analysis of artworks, which involves examining their composition, style, and technique, is a key component of these courses.
Survey Courses
FSU offers several survey courses that cover specific periods or styles of art, such as Renaissance Art, Baroque and Rococo Art, and Modern Art. These courses provide students with an in-depth understanding of the artistic, cultural, and historical developments of the respective periods. For example, the Renaissance Art course explores the art and architecture of Italy and Northern Europe during the 14th to 17th centuries, including the works of artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Students learn to identify and analyze the key characteristics of each style, such as the use of perspective in Renaissance art.
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Art History I | Survey of art and architecture from ancient to medieval times |
| Introduction to Art History II | Survey of art and architecture from the Renaissance to modern times |
| Renaissance Art | In-depth study of art and architecture in Italy and Northern Europe during the 14th to 17th centuries |
Specialized Courses
FSU offers a range of specialized art history courses that focus on specific topics, such as Women in Art, African American Art, and Latin American Art. These courses provide students with an in-depth understanding of the artistic, cultural, and historical developments of the respective topics. For example, the Women in Art course explores the contributions of women artists to the development of art from the Renaissance to the present, including the works of artists such as Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Judy Chicago. Students learn to analyze and interpret the artworks within their historical and cultural contexts, using feminist theory and other critical frameworks.
Methodology and Theory
FSU also offers courses that focus on the methodology and theory of art history, such as Art Historical Methods and Art Theory and Criticism. These courses provide students with a deep understanding of the principles and practices of art historical research, including the use of iconography and iconology. Students learn to analyze and interpret artworks using various theoretical frameworks, such as formalism, structuralism, and poststructuralism.
- Art Historical Methods: Introduction to the principles and practices of art historical research
- Art Theory and Criticism: Exploration of the major theories and critics of art from the Renaissance to the present
What are the prerequisites for taking art history courses at FSU?
+There are no prerequisites for taking introductory art history courses at FSU. However, some specialized courses may require completion of introductory courses or have other prerequisites.
Can I major in art history at FSU?
+Yes, FSU offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History. The major requires completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours of art history courses, including introductory courses, survey courses, and specialized courses.
In conclusion, the art history courses at FSU provide students with a comprehensive and rigorous education in the subject, covering a wide range of topics and periods. The courses are designed to be interdisciplinary, incorporating insights from various fields to provide students with a rich and nuanced understanding of the subject. Whether you are interested in pursuing a major in art history or simply want to explore the subject, FSU’s art history courses have something to offer.
