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Home Academics Programs and Majors Art History

Art History

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Art History (ARTH) Courses

ARTH 300 Art Appreciation

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 100
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course emphasizes the history, sources, techniques, and problems of art and architecture. Material presented includes illustrated lectures, readings, and discussions of the various manifestations of art in cultures throughout the world. This course is recommended as a basis for the understanding of art, including techniques and media; students will develop personal opinions concerning art and architecture and will learn to express those opinions through extensive writing about art. A field trip is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe the materials and techniques seen in the production of art.
  • explain and analyze the possible modes of expression in art.
  • formulate standards of judgment based upon reference to the history, purpose, and aesthetics of art.
  • express, in complex writing, well-supported opinions and critiques of art, using proper and appropriate terminology.
  • utilize problem solving and analytical skills in completing extensive writing.

ARTH 301 Introduction to Art History

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 or 325 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the student to a wide variety of art, including painting, sculpture, architecture, prints, textiles, and crafts; both Western and Non-Western art will be covered. The approach to the subjects is via primary sources in art and architectural history, as well as reading of important authors and scholarship in art history. Students will write research-oriented papers, based on primary research, secondary sources, and their own theories concerning art.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify, analyze, and utilize primary research sources in Western and Non-Western art and architectural history.
  • analyze, critique, and utilize secondary research sources in Western and Non-Western art and architectural history.
  • interpret, analyze, and assess works of art and architecture based on personal response to that art and architecture.
  • incorporate primary and secondary research sources in art history, as well as personal responses to art and architecture, in academic writing.

ARTH 304 Ancient Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the development of Western art from the Prehistoric era through the late Roman period. Emphasis is on Neolithic, Near Eastern, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures. Comparisons are made with other cultures.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize, identify, evaluate, and assess works of art from prehistoric and ancient cultures in the West based on their visual and stylistic characteristics.
  • explain how works of art were created and for what purposes they were used in prehistoric and ancient cultures in the West.
  • develop an awareness of cultures from past eras through exposure to their art and architecture.
  • critically analyze works of art from prehistoric and ancient cultures in the West based on culturally appropriate paradigms.

ARTH 306 Medieval Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the origin and development of Medieval art and architecture, including the Early Christian, Byzantine, Celtic, Islamic, Romanesque, and Gothic contributions. Comparisons are made with other traditions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture from the Medieval period in Europe.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art through the Medieval period.
  • interpret and evaluate Medieval art and architecture within their cultural and historical contexts.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art and architecture throughout the Medieval period in Europe.

ARTH 307 Italian Renaissance Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the visual arts and architecture of Italy in the Early Modern period, from duecento (13th century) through cinquecento (16th century). Topics include the relationship between the visual arts and culture and artists and their works from the periods and styles known as the Proto-Renaissance, Renaissance, High Renaissance, and Mannerism. Connections between Italy and other cultures, including New World civilizations, are also made.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify works of art in the Early Modern period, from the duecento (13th century) through the cinquecento (16th century) in Italy and related cultures.
  • compare and contrast the characteristics of artistic styles common in the Early Modern period in Italy and related cultures.
  • compare and contrast the relationships between the visual arts and culture in Italy and related cultures.
  • research and analyze the visual arts and architecture of Italy and related cultures in the Early Modern period.
  • explain the role of art, architecture, patrons, and artists in the period known as the Early Modern in Italy and related cultures.

ARTH 308 Renaissance Tradition in Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 120
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to art and architecture from circa 1300 to 1750 in Europe. Material covered includes painting, sculpture, architecture, and other media of the Italian Renaissance and Mannerist periods, 15th-Century Flemish art, the art of the Northern Renaissance, and Baroque and Rococo painting, sculpture, architecture, prints, and other media.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify, examine, and assess representative works of art and architecture from the Renaissance through the Rococo period employing appropriate art historical terminology.
  • analyze, discuss, and differentiate works of art and architecture in terms of historical context and cultural values.
  • analyze, discuss, and distinguish the roles of art, architecture, and the artist from the Renaissance through the Rococo period.
  • formulate and analyze meaning and functions of art throughout the Renaissance through the Rococo period.

ARTH 310 Modern Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 120; C-ID ARTH 150
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers 18th, 19th, 20th, and early 21st century art forms including painting, sculpture, and architecture in Europe and America. Styles discussed will include Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, and the major movements through Contemporary art. Post-Modern art will also be discussed. A field trip to an art museum or art gallery is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture from the Neoclassical period to the contemporary period.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art from the Neoclassical period to the contemporary period.
  • interpret and evaluate art and architecture from the Neoclassical period to the contemporary period within their cultural and historical contexts.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art and architecture from the Neoclassical period to the contemporary period.

ARTH 312 Women in Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a survey of art made by and for women from the ancient world to the present. Topics include the art of women from both European and non-European cultures. A field trip to a local museum is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify the significant contributions made by women artists, both today and in the past.
  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture done by women.
  • discuss and distinguish stylistic changes in art and architecture by women.
  • interpret and evaluate art and architecture within the greater context of women's shifting positions within a variety of cultures.
  • formulate and analyze meaning and functions of art and architecture created by women.

ARTH 313 History of Western Architecture: Prehistoric to Renaissance

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course addresses the history of Western architecture from circa 2500 B.C.E. to circa 1500. Subjects covered include prehistoric European architecture and architectural monuments, architecture in the ancient world, which includes the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures, and the great architecture of the European Romanesque and Gothic traditions. Architecture will be investigated for the ways in which it reflects the philosophical, cultural, and aesthetic expressions of civilizations. A field trip to view local architecture is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major architectural monuments in the Western tradition that date from circa 2500 B.C.E. to circa 1500.
  • use the proper terminology when writing and speaking about architecture.
  • explain the basic principles of architectural design and construction.
  • analyze and critique historic expressions of architecture.
  • describe and analyze the ways in which architecture can reflect the commonly-held philosophical, cultural, or aesthetic tenets of civilizations.
  • critique and analyze the symbolism and meanings of architecture from prehistoric times to the Renaissance in Europe.

ARTH 314 History of Western Architecture: Renaissance to Modern

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course addresses the history of architecture in the Western world from circa 1400 up to the Modernist period, circa 1900. The course covers Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, and 19th century architecture in Europe and America and will focus on the functions and meanings of architecture within Western culture. A field trip to view local architecture is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major architectural monuments in the Western tradition that date from circa 1400 to circa 1900.
  • use the proper terminology when writing and speaking about architecture.
  • explain the basic principles of architectural design and construction.
  • analyze and critique historic expressions of architecture.
  • describe and analyze the symbolic meaning of Western architecture from circa 1400 to circa 1900.
  • critique and analyze the political, cultural, and idiomatic uses of architecture in Western cultures from circa 1400 to circa 1900.

ARTH 318 History of American Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers art in America from circa 1000 to the present day. Lecture topics include Native American art and architecture prior to the arrival of Europeans, Colonial and Early American art and architecture, 19th century landscape, portraiture, and history paintings, and the rise of American art centers in the 20th century. The course emphasizes the variety of cultures in America, the breadth of American social ideals, and their expressions in art and architecture. A field trip to an art museum is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture created in America from circa 1000 to the present day.
  • compare and contrast the various meanings and uses of art and architecture in America from circa 1000 to the present day.
  • critique and analyze American art and architecture based on its aesthetic and functional qualities.
  • assess and identify the sources for and influences of American art and architecture.
  • assess and identify the breadth of visual and architectural expressions found in American art and architecture.
  • recognize and identify the various cultural idioms seen in American art and architecture.
  • analyze social, philosophical, and cultural constructs and ideals in America as they are reflected in American art and architecture.

ARTH 320 Multicultural Art in America

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the variety and diversity of important, but often underrepresented, cultures in America. The course is a survey of art forms and the contributions made by the ethnically diverse peoples who make up and contribute to the United States culture and character. To emphasize cultural diversity, instruction will include guest lectures by multicultural artists, as well as a required field trip.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify art and architecture from various cultures that may have been historically overlooked, due to sometimes negative classifications as "primitive" or "folk" art.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the major contributions of artists from a variety of world cultures.
  • analyze and evaluate art indigenous to world cultures.
  • compare and consider art from America's underrepresented cultures.

ARTH 324 Art of the Americas

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 or 325; ENGWR 302 or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 145
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course includes the study of the indigenous arts and artists of the Americas. Emphasis is on the Pre-Contact peoples of Mesoamerica and South America, such as the Aztec, Maya, and Inca cultures, and their contributions to colonial and modern art forms.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture from Mesoamerican and South American cultures.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art and architecture in Mesoamerican and South American cultures during the pre-contact and post-contact eras.
  • interpret and evaluate art and architecture from Mesoamerican and South American cultures.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art and architecture throughout Mesoamerica and South America.
  • recognize the distinctive contributions that indigenous cultures of the Americas have made to historic and contemporary culture in the West.

ARTH 325 Native American Art History

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the art and culture of Native American peoples. It will include the native peoples of the Arctic and Subarctic regions, the Northwest Coast, the Eastern Woodlands, including the Iroquois Confederacy, the Plains, the Southwest, and California. Contemporary Native American art will also be discussed. Comparisons between individual Native American cultures will be drawn, as well as comparisons between Native and Eurocentric cultures. A field trip to a local museum or Native American cultural event is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe the wide variety of Native American cultures.
  • identify and evaluate the visual culture of Native American peoples.
  • explain and analyze of the role of art in Native American culture throughout history.
  • critique and analyze the contribution of Native American artists in contemporary arts.
  • compare and contrast the artistic products of individual Native American cultures and artists, as well as artistic products of Native cultures with more Eurocentric cultures.

ARTH 328 Survey of African Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to African art in terms of its cultural and philosophical background; its materials and techniques; and its impact on the art of other regions of the world. One field trip is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify the art and architecture of the major African cultures.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art and architecture through time and cultures in Africa.
  • interpret and evaluate African art and architecture within their cultural and historical contexts.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art throughout Africa.
  • relate African art forms to the rest of the world in terms of material contribution.

ARTH 332 Asian Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 130
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introductory survey of the arts of East, South, and Southeast Asia, including India, China, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia. It features discussion of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other significant art forms from Neolithic to modern times. The contributions of Asian art to Western aesthetics are discussed; comparisons are also made between individual Eastern cultures and other non-Western cultures.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and critique works of art and architecture from Asian cultures, including Indian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cultures.
  • recognize the shifts in styles within the Asian cultures under consideration throughout time.
  • demonstrate an understanding of how Asian cultures have used art and architecture to express social and political ideas.
  • recognize major stylistic differences between Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian styles of art and architecture.
  • identify how Asian art and architecture has impacted the art and architecture of the Western world.
  • identify how East, South, and Southeast Asian art may have influenced Central and West Asian cultures.

ARTH 334 International Contemporary Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ARTH 300 or 310 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a survey of worldwide trends in art and architecture since 1980, with an emphasis on the diversity of contemporary global cultures. New art media, such as video, digital, and performance art are highlighted. Social and political concerns in art are another primary focus. A field trip is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify representative artists and artworks from a number of different world cultures.
  • describe current trends in painting, sculpture, photography, film, architecture, and new visual art media.
  • explain and analyze an artwork's visual elements as well as its social or political content.
  • compare and contrast the effectiveness of contemporary art and architecture.
  • discuss current controversies and legal matters in art and artists' changing roles as participants in contemporary society.

ARTH 410 Early 20th Century Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ARTH 310; ENGWR 301, or ENGWR 302, or ENGWR 303 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers art and architecture in the first half of the 20th century in Europe and the United States. Styles covered will include Fauvism, Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism and others. Additional lectures will cover American art between the wars, as well as the art produced in the United States during the Great Depression.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and evaluate art and architecture from the early 20th century in relation to their cultural and political contexts.
  • discuss and analyze the meaning and purpose of art and architecture from the early 20th century.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the variety of expressions in western Eurocentric art and architecture from the early 20th century.

ARTH 420 History of Photography

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 301, 302, or 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the history of photography, focusing on work of the 20th century. Early photographers in the 19th century are also studied, as well as 21st century trends. The cultural impact of photography on society and the influence of photography on other visual media are also discussed.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and assess the different photographic genres throughout history.
  • compare the different visual art periods and styles of photography.
  • describe and discuss the cultural impact of photography on society.
  • evaluate the influence of photography on other artistic mediums.

ARTH 484 Ancient Art-Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for admission to the Honors Program.
  • Advisory:Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the development of western art from the Prehistoric era through the Roman period. Emphasis is on ancient Near Eastern, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures. Comparisons are made with other cultures. Students will write a minimum of 6,000 words, including at least two art historical analyses and one research paper. Credit may be earned for ARTH 304 or ARTH 484 but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify works of art from the cultures covered in the course based on their visual and stylistic characteristics.
  • explain and analyze the meanings of art and architecture utilized by the cultures covered in the course.
  • describe and analyze the role of art and architecture in history.
  • explain how art and architecture was used by the cultures covered by the class to further political, social, and cultural agendas.
  • critically analyze works of art based on a specific culturally appropriate set of paradigms.

ARTH 486 Medieval Art-Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for the Honors Program
  • Advisory:Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • C-ID:C-ID ARTH 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the origin and development of Medieval art and architecture, including the Early Christian, Byzantine, Celtic, Islamic, Romanesque, and Gothic styles. A field trip is required. Comparisons are made with other traditions. Students give at least one oral presentation and write a minimum of 6,000 words, including at least two art historical analyses and one research paper. Credit may be earned for ARTH 306 or ARTH 486 but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture from the Medieval period in Europe.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art through the Medieval period.
  • interpret and evaluate Medieval art and architecture within their cultural and historical contexts.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art and architecture throughout the Medieval period in Europe.

ARTH 487 Renaissance Art-Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for admission to the Honors Program
  • Advisory:Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to the development of realism and illusionism in Western art from its roots in the Greco-Roman world to its flowering in the 15th and 16th Centuries in Europe. Mannerist, Baroque, and Rococo styles are also covered. Comparisons are also made with other traditions. Students give at least one oral presentation and write a minimum of 6,000 words, including at least two art historical analyses and one research paper. Credit may be earned for ARTH 308 or ARTH 487 but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture from the Renaissance through Rococo periods in Europe.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art between circa 1250 and circa 1800.
  • interpret and evaluate works of art and architecture created between circa 1250 and circa 1800 within their cultural and historical contexts.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art and architecture created between circa 1250 and circa 1800.

ARTH 488 Modern Art--Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for admission to the Honors Program.
  • Advisory:Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers 19th and 20th century art forms including painting, sculpture, and architecture in Europe and America. Styles discussed will include Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism, and Abstract Expressionism. Emphasis is on 20th century art to 1980. A field trip to an art museum or art gallery is required. Students give at least one oral presentation and write a minimum of 6,000 words, including at least two art historical analyses and one research paper. Credit may be earned for ARTH 310 or ARTH 488 but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • recognize and identify major works of art and architecture from the end of the 18th century to circa 1980.
  • discuss and distinguish styles and stylistic changes in art from the end of the 18th century to circa 1980.
  • interpret and evaluate art and architecture from the 18th century to circa 1980 within their cultural and historical contexts.
  • formulate and analyze meanings and functions of art and architecture from the end of the 18th century to circa 1980.

ARTH 494 Topics in Art History

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:9 - 72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to give students an opportunity to study topics in art history not included in current course offerings. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • discuss and analyze art and architecture of the culture or time period under study.
  • explain and analyze the cultural uses of art and architecture by the culture or time period under study.
  • critique various methodologies used in the research concerning the culture or time period under study.
  • develop theories concerning the meaning, symbolism, uses, and analyses of the art and architecture of the culture or time period under study.

ARTH 495 Independent Studies in Art History

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course involves an individual student or small groups of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses, pursuant to an agreement among college, faculty members, and students. Independent Studies in Art History offers students a chance to do research that is more typical of students in advanced art history courses. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • discuss and analyze art and architecture of the culture or time period under study.
  • describe the cultural uses of art and architecture by the culture or time period under study.
  • develop theories concerning the meaning, symbolism, uses, and analyses of the art and architecture of the culture or time period under study.
  • critique various methodologies used in the research concerning the culture or time period under study.

ARTH 499 Experimental Offering in Art History

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

Kondos Gallery

Art Program

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Arts and Communication

Arts and Communication meta major

This program is part of the Arts and Communication meta major.

Arts and Communication