Visual And Performing Arts OpenCourseWare: WGU's Free Bachelor Level Visual and Performing Arts Class

Published Feb 15, 2009

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Explore the major forms of both performing art and visual art through this free OpenCourseWare from Western Governors University (WGU). 'Visual and Performing Arts' explores forms of art, such as painting, sculpture, music, theater and dance. The course also helps students seeking a Bachelor of Fine Arts develop the critical skills needed to appreciate, evaluate and interpret any work of art.

Visual and Performing Arts: Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Undergraduate Yes Yes Yes Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes No

Visual and Performing Arts: Course Description

The first portion of this course offers an overview of 2-dimensional visual art, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, collage and photography. The course also addresses 3-dimensional art, including design and sculpture, traditional architecture, city planning and landscape architecture. The performing arts lessons cover theater, cinema, dance and music. The 11 self-study modules provide a wealth of information on art history, styles, elements and techniques. The Western Governors University OpenCourseWare also helps students establish methods and criteria for evaluating works of art and discovering their meanings. Two textbooks are required to complete some of the coursework, including The Humanities through the Arts by F. David Martin and Lee A. Jacobus, eds. and Perceiving the Arts: An Introduction to the Humanities by Dennis J. Sporre. WGU mentors Anthony Siciliano of Arizona State University and Alison Walker of UCLA facilitate the course.

Lecture notes, links to related websites and images of works of art are available for free download.

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