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Federico von Borstel

This course is an Introduction to the Fundamental elements of Art. The course begins by developing an understanding of what Art is. The basic premise of this course is that Art is a State of Consciousness of the person experiencing the art and also of the person making the art. The principles of art are illustrated with the works of the great masters from all styles and types of art. The course encourages you to learn by doing, but primarily seeks to make your learning productive and enjoyable.

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This course is an Introduction to the Fundamental elements of Art. The course begins by developing an understanding of what Art is. The basic premise of this course is that Art is a State of Consciousness of the person experiencing the art and also of the person making the art. The principles of art are illustrated with the works of the great masters from all styles and types of art. The course encourages you to learn by doing, but primarily seeks to make your learning productive and enjoyable.

I teach lecture courses and studios as I wish they would have been taught to me. Much of the graphic material in my lectures is taken or generated first hand directly by me on site. I teach to learn. I teach subjects as I wish they were taught to me. The Mission Statement. Education is a tool for the improvement of successive generations. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

This course is designed under the premise that humans should be taught in a way that is modeled after the educational patterns of evolution.

The design, development and application of educational systems based on the educational principles of evolution generates a philosophy and methodology of education in synchrony with the evolutionary education system that is firmly and deeply rooted in each of us.

Education for evolution is an educational system designed to help propel humans forward in the natural course of evolution. The purpose of education for evolution is to enhance and strengthen the natural evolutionary process of humans through the mechanism of education. The means to achieve this objective is the design of a curricula based on the same educational techniques and strategies used by natural evolution, enhanced and guided by the application of conscious educational decisions.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • This is an introduction to art.
  • Increased appreciation of art
  • The course enhances human development.
  • The course promotes self-learning.

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction to Art 2
Introduction to Art 3
Introduction to Art 4
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Introduction to Art 5
Introduction to Art 6
Introduction to Art 7
Introduction to Art 8
Introduction to Art 9
Introduction to Art 10
Introduction to Art 11
Introduction to Art 12
Introduction to Art 13
Introduction to Art 14
Introduction to Art 15
Introduction to Art 16
Introduction to Art 17
Introduction to Art 18
Introduction to Art 19
Course Catalog

Good to know

Know what's good
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Provides an introduction to the fundamental elements of art, which builds a strong foundation for beginners interested in exploring artistic concepts and techniques
Aims to enhance human development and promote self-learning, which can be valuable for individuals seeking personal growth and a deeper understanding of art
Explores art as a state of consciousness, offering unique perspectives that may add color to other topics and subjects, fostering a broader understanding of human experience
Encourages learning by doing, which can make the learning process more productive and enjoyable for students who prefer hands-on experience
Presents a philosophy and methodology of education in synchrony with the evolutionary education system, which may appeal to learners seeking innovative approaches
Illustrates the principles of art with the works of the great masters from all styles and types of art, which may be useful for students interested in art history

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Art with these activities:
Read 'Ways of Seeing' by John Berger
Develop a critical understanding of art and its cultural context.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Ways of Seeing'.
  • Read the book carefully, taking notes on key arguments.
  • Reflect on how Berger's ideas relate to the art discussed in the course.
Explore 'The Story of Art' by E.H. Gombrich
Gain a broad understanding of art history and its evolution.
View The Story of Art on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Story of Art'.
  • Read the book, focusing on the periods and styles covered in the course.
  • Take notes on key artists, artworks, and movements.
Start an art journal
Encourage self-learning and exploration of artistic ideas through regular journaling and sketching.
Show steps
  • Obtain a sketchbook or notebook to use as your art journal.
  • Make regular entries in your journal, including sketches, notes, and reflections on art.
  • Experiment with different artistic techniques and styles in your journal.
Four other activities
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Create a visual analysis of a famous artwork
Apply the principles of art to analyze a famous artwork and deepen your understanding of artistic techniques and concepts.
Show steps
  • Choose a famous artwork that interests you.
  • Research the artwork's historical and cultural context.
  • Analyze the artwork's composition, color, and symbolism.
  • Write a visual analysis of the artwork, incorporating your research and analysis.
Volunteer at a local art museum or gallery
Gain hands-on experience and increased appreciation of art by volunteering at a local art institution.
Show steps
  • Contact local art museums or galleries to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Complete the application process and attend any required training.
  • Volunteer your time and assist with various tasks, such as greeting visitors or assisting with events.
Create a presentation on an art movement
Deepen your understanding of art history by researching and presenting on a specific art movement.
Show steps
  • Choose an art movement that interests you.
  • Research the movement's history, key artists, and characteristics.
  • Create a presentation that summarizes your research.
  • Present your findings to the class or a small group.
Curate a virtual art exhibition
Apply your knowledge of art history and curation to create a virtual exhibition of artworks.
Show steps
  • Choose a theme for your virtual exhibition.
  • Select artworks that fit your theme.
  • Write descriptions for each artwork.
  • Design the layout of your virtual exhibition.
  • Share your virtual exhibition with others.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Art will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Art Educator
An art educator teaches art concepts and techniques. This course provides a solid foundation for an art educator by introducing the fundamental elements of art and underscoring that art is a state of consciousness of the artist and the viewer. The emphasis on learning by doing resonates with educational practices. The course is developed under the premise that humans should be educated in ways that are modeled after the patterns of evolution, this philosophy aligns with a student centered teaching philosophy. This introductory course may allow art educators to create an environment where students learn through exploration and engagement.
Studio Artist
A studio artist creates original artworks, developing their unique style and techniques. This course helps a studio artist by introducing the fundamental elements of art. The course’s emphasis on art as a state of consciousness of the maker also allows an artist to better understand their own creative process. The analysis of the works of great masters may help inspire the development of a personal style. The course also encourages learning by doing, which is essential practice for a studio artist. This course may help a studio artist develop a more sophisticated and informed approach to art making.
Museum Educator
A museum educator develops and delivers educational programs and activities for museum visitors of all ages. This course helps build an appreciation of art, which is essential for a museum educator. The course's focus on art as a 'state of consciousness' allows for a deeper understanding of art's impact on individuals. The approach of teaching subjects as they wish they were taught aligns well with an educator's goal to make learning engaging. The course's design, which is based on evolutionary educational principles, may help a museum educator explore methods that resonate with learners.
Art historian
An art historian researches, analyzes, and interprets art, examining its historical, cultural, and social contexts. This course provides a foundation for aspiring art historians by teaching the fundamental elements of art and deepening an appreciation of the field. By analyzing the works of great masters, a future art historian can develop their visual analysis skills. The course also provides an understanding of art as a state of consciousness, which can inform interpretations and analyses of the work. This course may help art historians better understand the relationship between art and human experience.
Art Critic
An art critic evaluates and interprets art, often writing reviews or essays for publications or blogs. This course helps by introducing the fundamentals of art, which are essential to providing informed commentary about art. The course's consideration of art as a state of consciousness may give the art critic new insights into the work being evaluated. The course, by examining the works of masters, helps a critic consider different styles and approaches. This course may be useful as a foundation for an art critic.
Illustrator
An illustrator creates images and graphics for various media such as books, magazines, and websites, often working with a client or team. This course helps build an appreciation of art, which is fundamental to the role of illustrator. The course introduces the core concepts of art, which may inform an illustrator's creative process. The focus on art as a state of consciousness may help an illustrator consider the subjective aspects of their work. The course encourages learning by doing, which is key for developing practical skills. This course may help an illustrator better understand the art they create.
Art Curator
An art curator develops and manages collections of art, deciding which pieces to acquire and display. They also research artists and trends. This course helps build an understanding of the fundamental elements of art, allowing a future curator to analyze and appreciate works from different styles. The course emphasizes that art is a state of consciousness, which allows a deeper understanding of the artist's intentions, and therefore enriches a curator's knowledge. The course's focus on learning by doing can also help develop a curator's eye. This foundational course may be particularly helpful for a new curator.
Multimedia Artist
A multimedia artist creates art using a variety of digital and traditional media such as video, animation, and sound. This course may be helpful to a multimedia artist by providing a foundation in the core principles and elements of art. The course's recognition of art as a state of consciousness may inform a multimedia artist's creative process and understanding of the audience's experience. By examining the works of great masters from various styles, a multimedia artist can broaden their perspective. This course may help a multimedia artist gain a deeper appreciation for art.
Exhibition Designer
An exhibition designer is responsible for planning and arranging the layout and aesthetics of art exhibitions. This course may help an exhibition designer by providing an appreciation for the fundamental elements of art and an understanding of art as a state of consciousness for the artist and the viewer. The course's emphasis on the works of great masters may inform a designer's understanding of visual and spatial relationships. The course may help an exhibition designer create engaging and meaningful experiences for the viewer. The course's teachings may help a designer understand the goals of the artwork.
Art Consultant
An art consultant provides advice and guidance to clients on building and managing art collections. This course may help an art consultant by providing an introductory overview of the fundamentals of art. The principle that art is a state of consciousness allows for a more nuanced assessment of the subjective art experience. By analyzing the works of great masters, a consultant may develop a deeper understanding of artistic styles and quality. This course helps build a strong foundation of knowledge for an art consultant.
Set Designer
A set designer creates the visual environment for theatrical performances, films, and other productions. This course may help a set designer by providing a foundation in the basic elements of art and the historical context of various art movements. The idea that art is a state of consciousness may inform a set designer's understanding of how to create a space that communicates emotion and narrative. By examining the work of great masters, a set designer can consider various visual approaches. This introductory course may help a set designer develop a deeper appreciation for artistic expression.
Art Therapist
An art therapist uses creative methods to help clients address emotional, mental, and behavioral challenges. This course may be helpful to an art therapist by introducing the core concepts of art and recognizing the role of consciousness. The course's emphasis on learning by doing may assist a therapist in facilitating hands-on experiences for their clients. The idea that art is a state of consciousness, as explored in the course, may inform techniques used in an art therapy program. This course may help an aspiring art therapist appreciate the therapeutic potential of art.
Graphic designer
A graphic designer creates visual concepts for a variety of media such as websites, advertisements, and packaging and often works with digital tools. This course may help a graphic designer through its introduction of fundamental elements of art and how those elements are applied in practice. The focus on art as a state of consciousness can enhance a designer's approach to visual communication and how to establish resonance with the viewer. By examining the work of great masters, a graphic designer can refine their visual vocabulary. This course may improve a graphic designer's aesthetic sensibility.
Creative Director
A creative director oversees the visual and conceptual aspects of creative projects, often in advertising, marketing, or media settings. This course may be helpful to a creative director by providing an understanding of the fundamental elements of art and an appreciation for the field as a whole. The course's focus on art as a state of consciousness of both the creator and the viewer may provide insights into how art communicates and resonates with audiences. The course, by examining various styles, may help a creative director develop a broader perspective. These elements would make the course helpful to someone in a creative direction role.
Art Appraiser
An art appraiser assesses the monetary value of artwork, considering factors like condition, provenance, and historical significance. This course may be useful to an art appraiser as it provides an introduction to fundamental elements of art and the nature of art itself. The course, by examining the works of masters, helps build an understanding of style and technique, allowing an appraiser to identify and value pieces more accurately. The course's consideration of art as a state of consciousness may give insight into the artist's process, which may indirectly influence value. While the course is introductory, it may help develop a strong foundation for an art appraiser.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Art.
Seminal text in art criticism. It challenges traditional ways of viewing art and explores the relationship between art, advertising, and ideology. Reading this book will provide a critical lens through which to analyze and understand the works of art discussed in the course, enhancing your appreciation and understanding of the subject matter.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Western art. It valuable resource for understanding the evolution of art styles and movements. Reading this book will provide a broad historical context for the art discussed in the course, enriching your understanding of the subject matter. It is commonly used as a textbook in introductory art history courses.

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