Holiday Homework

Over our holiday break, there will be no written homework assigned (unless you do the extra credit assignment from class) and I wish you all a restful and enjoyable week. However, I would caution you to open your text and occasionally review material we've covered, and look ahead to our future art forays, particularly the Renaissance in Italy.

I am, however, requesting your attention for one viewing assignment listed below:

PBS is currently running a weekly series entitled "Art Through Time". The series takes thirteen themes and discusses a variety of artworks from different cultures that reflect the weekly theme of the particular episode. All episodes are available, along with a wealth of supplemental information, at the following site:

http://www.learner.org/courses/globalart/

Over the holiday break, take 27 minutes to view Episode 3, "History and Memory".

As you watch, and after viewing, consider the following:

1. How does art have an effect on our ideas about historical events? What are the roles and responsibilities of artists in presenting historical depictions?
2. Societies use art to commemorate certain important individuals in their history or to memorialize significant events. What types of markers of historical memory do you encounter during your normal daily routine? Why do you pay attention or ignore those commemorations? What memorials have you traveled to view personally? Why was this monument meaningful enough for you to visit?
3. Some historical events and figures remain in the forefront of a culture’s collective memory, while others, who may have been as influential, fade away. How has art assisted in the keeping events or people in the foreground of the collective memory?
4. Often art presents certain events that will prompt different responses, depending on who views it, and when and where it is viewed. What responsibility does the art viewer have in interpreting the accuracy of its message and legacy?
5. In some instances, objects originally used as mnemonic devices to prompt memories become objects of art. What shifts our perceptions of an object that elevates it in such a way?

Answers do not need to be written, but you should be prepared to discuss these points and others in class when we return.