Art of Mosaic

CRN: 30205
Note: This 8-credit program will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

In this rigorous, interdisciplinary class we will explore the art and art history of mosaics while learning and practicing the principles of design. An ancient art that combines practicality with beauty, the mosaic medium is currently having a renaissance as contemporary artists explore its uses in architectural design and outdoor sites. Students will learn to make both two-dimensional and three-dimensional mosaic artworks while putting good design principles into practice. Students will also study the history of mosaics, concentrating on three eras when mosaic art flourished: the Byzantine and Medieval periods, the Arts and Crafts Movement and the Art Nouveau style that grew out of it, and the multifaceted era of contemporary mosaics. Students will learn to write and discuss artwork using the technique of formal analysis. Students will also complete a research project on some aspect of the history of mosaics and give an in-class presentation about their research. (Note: We will not be studying graphic design or web design.)