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Ying Xiao
and
Jing Sun
Throughout human history, art has served as a window into current events, traditions, societies and culture. And, Chinese and Western civilizations have produced some of the most famous artworks by world-renowned artists.
This course will examine Western and Chinese art, artists and history. Through exploring immortal works of art, this course will help learners gain insight into our shared history and better understand culture, both past and present.
Read more
Throughout human history, art has served as a window into current events, traditions, societies and culture. And, Chinese and Western civilizations have produced some of the most famous artworks by world-renowned artists.
This course will examine Western and Chinese art, artists and history. Through exploring immortal works of art, this course will help learners gain insight into our shared history and better understand culture, both past and present.
Read more
Throughout human history, art has served as a window into current events, traditions, societies and culture. And, Chinese and Western civilizations have produced some of the most famous artworks by world-renowned artists.
This course will examine Western and Chinese art, artists and history. Through exploring immortal works of art, this course will help learners gain insight into our shared history and better understand culture, both past and present.
From an interdisciplinary perspective of art history, aesthetics, intellectual history and cultural history, we will explore spiritual and cultural questions such as “where are we from” and “what is humanity.” The course will present a general overview of Chinese art and Western art, focusing on major works with special attention paid to the comparison between China and the West and between tradition and modernity.
In this course, learners will develop a systematic knowledge of Western and Chinese art history, its artists and aesthetic theories. Students will develop aesthetic judgment, appreciation and a knowledge of humanities, and cultivate their artistic tastes.
Join us as we survey renowned Chinese and Western artists and deepen our understanding and appreciation of art, history and culture.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/u4w3bf/western
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Major works of chinese and western art, the artists, and aesthetic theories
- How art can be used to analyze current events, traditions, culture, and society
- How to compare china and the west and tradition and modernity through art
- Major works of chinese and western art, the artists, and aesthetic theories
- How art can be used to analyze current events, traditions, culture, and society
- How to compare china and the west and tradition and modernity through art
Syllabus
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores the ways art reflects culture across time and space
Taught by instructors from Chinese and Western universities
Examines art through an interdisciplinary perspective, including art history, aesthetics, intellectual history, and cultural history
Provides a comparison between China and the West alongside tradition and modernity, widening students' perspective on art
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Reviews summary
Comparative western and chinese art survey
According to learners, this course offers a unique and valuable comparative perspective on Western and Chinese art history. Students appreciate the broad scope, covering many masters and classics over 15 weeks. The lectures are widely praised, delivered by knowledgeable and engaging instructors who make the complex material accessible. While the extensive coverage is a major strength, some reviewers note that it occasionally leads to a lack of depth on specific topics, which might be a warning for those seeking advanced study. Overall, it's seen as an excellent introduction and a great way to gain appreciation for both traditions.
Wide-ranging survey covering vast periods
"It covers a vast amount of history and key artists, which is great for getting an overview."
"The scope is incredibly ambitious, touching upon many key periods and movements in 15 weeks."
"While it's comprehensive in breadth, sometimes I wished we could delve deeper into specific artists or periods."
"A good starting point for understanding the timelines and major figures in both traditions."
Solid foundation for newcomers to art history
"As someone relatively new to art history, I found this a very accessible and engaging start."
"It gave me a solid foundation in both Western and Chinese art, which was my goal."
"Perfect for beginners wanting a comprehensive overview before deciding where to specialize."
"I learned a tremendous amount even with no prior formal knowledge of art history."
Unique side-by-side analysis of East and West art
"The side-by-side comparison of Western and Chinese art was fascinating and incredibly insightful."
"I really appreciated the unique perspective offered by comparing these two art traditions throughout history."
"Seeing how different cultures approached similar themes through art was eye-opening and broadened my understanding."
"This course provides a truly valuable comparative lens that you don't often find elsewhere."
Instructors are knowledgeable and engaging
"The professor was incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and conveyed the material beautifully."
"Lectures were well-structured, clear, and easy to follow, making complex ideas understandable."
"I enjoyed the way the material was presented; the instructors brought the subject matter to life."
"Excellent instructors who clearly have deep expertise in both Western and Chinese art."
Vast scope means limited depth in areas
"Given the vast scope, the course sometimes felt a bit rushed when moving between topics."
"While it covers a lot, it's not in-depth enough if you already have some art history background."
"Don't expect deep dives into specific periods or artists; it's truly an extensive survey."
"The breadth is impressive, but it means sacrifices had to be made on the depth of coverage."
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 Western and Chinese Art: Masters and Classics with these
activities:
Review 'Art: The Whole Story'
Show steps
Discuss an overview of the development of Western art from prehistory to the late 20th century. Examine key art movements, styles, and artists, providing a strong foundation for understanding the course material.
View
A World History of Art
on Amazon
Show steps
Review High School Art History
Show steps
Review the basics of Western and Chinese art history to refresh your knowledge and prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
-
Review your high school art history notes.
-
Read a general overview of art history, such as "Gardner's Art Through the Ages".
-
Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge.
Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Chinese Art Collection
Show steps
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website and explore their collection of Chinese art. Examine various artworks and learn about their historical context, cultural significance, and artistic techniques.
Browse courses on
Chinese Art
Show steps
-
Go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website.
-
Browse the Chinese art collection.
-
Select an artwork that interests you.
-
Read the information about the artwork.
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Read "The Story of Art" by E.H. Gombrich
Show steps
Provide a comprehensive overview of Western art history.
View
E. H. Gombrich on Fresco Painting
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read one chapter per week.
-
Take notes on the key ideas and concepts.
Explore Online Art History Resources
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of art history by utilizing reputable and informative online resources.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
-
Identify reliable online art history resources, such as museum websites and academic journals.
-
Explore these resources to find articles, videos, and interactive materials.
-
Incorporate these resources into your study routine.
Analyze Artworks Using Formal Elements
Show steps
Practice identifying and describing the formal elements of artworks, such as line, shape, color, and texture. Improve your ability to analyze and interpret artworks by applying these elements.
Show steps
-
Select an artwork for analysis.
-
Identify the formal elements present in the artwork.
-
Describe how the elements are used to create a specific effect or convey a message.
Discuss the Cultural Impact of Art
Show steps
Participate in a group discussion to explore the cultural impact of art throughout history. Discuss how art reflects and influences societal values, beliefs, and traditions, deepening your understanding of the role of art in shaping human civilization.
Show steps
-
Join a peer discussion group.
-
Research the cultural impact of art.
-
Prepare to share your ideas and perspectives.
-
Participate in the group discussion.
Create a Timeline of Chinese and Western Art
Show steps
Visually organize and compare the development of Chinese and Western art over time.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
-
Research the major periods and movements in Chinese and Western art.
-
Create a timeline using a tool like Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, or Prezi.
-
Include key artworks, artists, and styles in your timeline.
Attend a Virtual Art Exhibition
Show steps
Engage with the art community and learn about contemporary art trends.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
-
Research upcoming virtual art exhibitions.
-
Attend an exhibition and explore the artworks.
-
Network with other attendees and artists.
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to reinforce concepts, discuss ideas, and enhance understanding.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
-
Find or create a study group with other students in the course.
-
Meet regularly to review course materials.
-
Work together to complete assignments and prepare for assessments.
Analyze Artworks from Different Cultures
Show steps
Develop critical thinking and analytical skills by examining and comparing artworks.
Show steps
-
Select a variety of artworks from different cultures and time periods.
-
Analyze each artwork using the elements of art (e.g., line, color, texture).
-
Compare and contrast the artworks based on their similarities and differences.
Develop a Curated Art Collection Proposal
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of art history and aesthetics to create a proposal for a curated art collection.
Show steps
-
Define the theme and focus of the collection.
-
Research artworks and artists that align with the theme.
-
Create a proposal document outlining the collection's concept, rationale, and budget.
Review 'Art: The Whole Story'
Show steps
Discuss an overview of the development of Western art from prehistory to the late 20th century. Examine key art movements, styles, and artists, providing a strong foundation for understanding the course material.
View
A World History of Art
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
Review High School Art History
Show steps
Review the basics of Western and Chinese art history to refresh your knowledge and prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your high school art history notes.
- Read a general overview of art history, such as "Gardner's Art Through the Ages".
- Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge.
Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Chinese Art Collection
Show steps
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website and explore their collection of Chinese art. Examine various artworks and learn about their historical context, cultural significance, and artistic techniques.
Browse courses on
Chinese Art
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website.
- Browse the Chinese art collection.
- Select an artwork that interests you.
- Read the information about the artwork.
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Read "The Story of Art" by E.H. Gombrich
Show steps
Provide a comprehensive overview of Western art history.
View
E. H. Gombrich on Fresco Painting
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read one chapter per week.
- Take notes on the key ideas and concepts.
Explore Online Art History Resources
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of art history by utilizing reputable and informative online resources.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reliable online art history resources, such as museum websites and academic journals.
- Explore these resources to find articles, videos, and interactive materials.
- Incorporate these resources into your study routine.
Analyze Artworks Using Formal Elements
Show steps
Practice identifying and describing the formal elements of artworks, such as line, shape, color, and texture. Improve your ability to analyze and interpret artworks by applying these elements.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select an artwork for analysis.
- Identify the formal elements present in the artwork.
- Describe how the elements are used to create a specific effect or convey a message.
Discuss the Cultural Impact of Art
Show steps
Participate in a group discussion to explore the cultural impact of art throughout history. Discuss how art reflects and influences societal values, beliefs, and traditions, deepening your understanding of the role of art in shaping human civilization.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join a peer discussion group.
- Research the cultural impact of art.
- Prepare to share your ideas and perspectives.
- Participate in the group discussion.
Create a Timeline of Chinese and Western Art
Show steps
Visually organize and compare the development of Chinese and Western art over time.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the major periods and movements in Chinese and Western art.
- Create a timeline using a tool like Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, or Prezi.
- Include key artworks, artists, and styles in your timeline.
Attend a Virtual Art Exhibition
Show steps
Engage with the art community and learn about contemporary art trends.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming virtual art exhibitions.
- Attend an exhibition and explore the artworks.
- Network with other attendees and artists.
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to reinforce concepts, discuss ideas, and enhance understanding.
Browse courses on
Art History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or create a study group with other students in the course.
- Meet regularly to review course materials.
- Work together to complete assignments and prepare for assessments.
Analyze Artworks from Different Cultures
Show steps
Develop critical thinking and analytical skills by examining and comparing artworks.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a variety of artworks from different cultures and time periods.
- Analyze each artwork using the elements of art (e.g., line, color, texture).
- Compare and contrast the artworks based on their similarities and differences.
Develop a Curated Art Collection Proposal
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of art history and aesthetics to create a proposal for a curated art collection.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the theme and focus of the collection.
- Research artworks and artists that align with the theme.
- Create a proposal document outlining the collection's concept, rationale, and budget.
Career center
Learners who complete Western and Chinese Art: Masters and Classics will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Art historian
Art historian
Art Historians research, analyze, and interpret art. This course will help you build a strong foundation in art history, and it will provide you with the skills that you need to analyze and interpret works of art. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts.
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research in colleges and universities. This course will help you build a strong foundation in art history, and it will provide you with the skills that you need to teach and conduct research. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct original research in a variety of fields. This course will help you build a strong foundation in art history, and it will provide you with the skills that you need to conduct research. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts.
Artwork Appraiser
Artwork Appraiser
Artwork Appraisers determine the value of works of art. This course will help you to develop the knowledge and skills that you need to appraise works of art. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the factors that affect the value of works of art.
Curator
Curator
Curators are responsible for planning and managing exhibitions in museums and galleries. This course will help you to develop the knowledge and skills that you need to be a curator. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the principles of exhibition design and management.
Conservator
Conservator
Conservators preserve and restore works of art. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills that you need to be a conservator. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the materials and techniques used in the creation and preservation of works of art.
Gallery Director
Gallery Director
Gallery Directors are responsible for the overall operation of art galleries. This course will help you to develop the knowledge and skills that you need to be a gallery director. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the business of art and gallery management.
Museum Director
Museum Director
Museum Directors are responsible for the overall operation of museums. This course will help you to develop the knowledge and skills that you need to be a museum director. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the business of museum management.
Art Critic
Art Critic
Art Critics write about visual art, using the knowledge that they've gained on art and its history to evaluate artworks. This course covers major works of Chinese and Western art, and it provides a foundation for appreciating different art styles and contexts. The understanding that you will gain in this course will help you to write and speak about works of art, and to analyze pieces within and across cultures.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers plan and deliver instruction to students in a variety of settings. This course will help you build a strong foundation in art history, and it will provide you with the skills that you need to teach art. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts.
Writer
Writer
Writers create content for a variety of purposes and audiences. This course will help you build a strong foundation in art history, and it will provide you with the skills that you need to write about art. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts.
Art Consultant
Art Consultant
Art Consultants advise clients on the purchase, sale, and care of works of art. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills that you need to be an art consultant. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the art market and the business of art.
Art dealer
Art dealer
Art Dealers buy and sell works of art. This course will help you develop the knowledge and skills that you need to be an art dealer. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts. You'll also learn about the art market and the business of art.
Art Educator
Art Educator
Art Educators teach art to students in a variety of settings. This course will help you build a strong foundation in art history, and it will provide you with the skills that you need to teach art. You'll learn about the major works of Chinese and Western art, and you'll gain an understanding of different art styles and contexts.
Art Director
Art Director
Art Directors oversee the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and more. The knowledge that you'll gain in this course about art history and aesthetics will help you to make informed decisions about the visual elements of marketing materials, and to understand how images and symbols can be used to communicate ideas.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/u4w3bf/western
Reading list
We've selected 18 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
Western and Chinese Art: Masters and Classics.
Save
This comprehensive textbook provides a detailed overview of Chinese art history, covering a wide range of periods, styles, and artists. It useful reference for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the context and development of Chinese art.
This comprehensive textbook provides a broad overview of Western art history, covering a wide range of periods, styles, and artists. It useful reference for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the context and development of Western art.
This extensive textbook provides a comprehensive overview of Western art, from the Paleolithic era to the present day, with a focus on the major works, artists, and artistic movements. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the history and development of Western art.
This widely-used textbook provides a comprehensive overview of art history from around the world, including both Western and Chinese art. It useful resource for students who want to gain a global perspective on art history.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Chinese art, from the Neolithic period to the present day. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of Chinese art.
Save
This classic text provides a lively and engaging introduction to art history, covering a wide range of periods, styles, and artists. It good starting point for students who are new to art history.
This concise and accessible introduction to art history provides a broad overview of the field, covering a range of topics from the origins of art to contemporary art. It good starting point for students who want to get a general understanding of art history.
Explores the role of images in early Chinese culture, from the Neolithic period to the Han dynasty. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of images in Chinese art and society.
Examines the lives and works of Chinese scholar-artists during the late Ming period (1368-1644). It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context of Chinese art.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the art of Renaissance Florence, from the early 14th century to the mid-16th century. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
Save
Explores the art of the Dutch Golden Age, with a particular focus on the work of Rembrandt van Rijn. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements in art, from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of modern art, from the early 20th century to the present day. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Western art, from prehistoric times to the present day. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
Explores the history, aesthetics, and cultural significance of Chinese calligraphy. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of this important art form.
Examines the history and development of the literati tradition in Chinese painting, from the 11th century to the 19th century. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of this important genre of Chinese art.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Japanese art, from the Jomon period to the present day. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Korean art, from the Neolithic period to the present day. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the major works, artists, and artistic movements of this period.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/u4w3bf/western
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Rating
3.0
Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Tsinghua University
Instructors
Ying Xiao
Jing Sun
Language
English
Transcript
English
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