Introduction to Art History

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What is Art History?

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The study of the history of art across different periods and cultures, focusing on skills developed rather than specific career outcomes.

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What is Global Art History?

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Examines art history from around the world, selective in place and time, avoids hierarchical ranking of art periods, expansive in historical scope, non-linear in narrative, focuses on cultural encounters and exchanges.

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What are the methodologies in Art History?

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Style/Form, Iconography, Medium/Material, Patron/Site, Function/Viewer.

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What is Style/Form in Art History?

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Analyzes distinctive visual elements: line, color, shape, scale, space. Levels include Individual Style, Regional Style, Period Style.

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What is Iconography in Art History?

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Studies subject matter, including stories, characters, and related attributes, and how it conveys broader meanings in historical contexts.

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What is Medium/Material in Art History?

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Focuses on the type of work (painting, sculpture, etc.), materials used, and techniques. Explores social and cultural meanings of materials.

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What is Patron/Site in Art History?

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Considers the commissioning or purchasing party and the work’s display site, including broader political, religious, or social contexts.

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What is Function/Viewer in Art History?

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Analyzes the purpose and intended audience of the work, physical interaction, and viewer reception over time.

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What are the types of historical contexts in Art History?

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Biographical, political, religious, economic, cultural, intellectual, social, environmental.

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What are primary sources in Art History?

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Documents, letters, sacred texts.