How do mechanisms of perception structure responses to visual art? What is at stake when words describe images? By means of intensive looking, thinking, speaking, and writing, this course introduces the student to a series of problems and issues in the description and analysis of works of art. Because the course is also an introduction to the historical study of art, it is intended for students with no previous course work in the field. Satisfies the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement.

Depictions of the human body have been central to western art history, a discipline largely concerned with corporeality and embodiment. Established art historical narratives trace how representations of the body have changed over time from European academies advocating the emulation of classical ideals to the perceived iconoclasm of the avant-gardes. This course will supplement these narratives by considering representations of disability, as well as the work of artists working from within the personal experience of disability. In other words, we will look at disability as both a subject and an influence on artistic creation. Disability Studies’ potential to alternatively analyze and contextualize artworks disrupts well-rehearsed art historical narratives, powerfully questioning processes of making, notions of “modernity,” “authorship,” and “reception” among others. This class will prioritize close reading of a variety of texts produced by scholars in the disciplines of Art History and Disability studies. We will therefore be introduced to a broad spectrum of ways to look at, think, and write about the human body. We will also practice the basic skills involved in researching, reading, and writing effectively in an academic context. Indeed, as the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement, this course aims to provide students with the skills to write a 10-12 page research paper. Students should also expect to complete several drafts of the paper, an annotated bibliography, and a short presentation.

Requisites

• UC Entry Level Writing Requirement, English 1A, or equivalent. Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills