Writing

For the Module Six discussion forum, you have the choice of two topics:

TOPIC ONE: Choose one of the four paintings in the "Artistic Symbolism" segment of Module Six to analyze for their symbolic content without resorting to outside resources (i.e., art history books, art criticism, art Web sites etc.). For a larger view of each painting, left-click on its thumbnail. When analyzing these paintings, trust your own judgment and instincts. Art criticism is not a science. There is never one interpretation. Any subjective interpretation is valid as long as it is supported by contextual evidence within the work of art itself. I give a little background on each painting in Module Six, but it is up to you to puzzle out the elements of conventional and contextual symbolism and, hopefully, the ultimate message of the work of art itself. You are required to post your personal interpretations in the Module Six discussion forum.

NOTE: If you would like to analyze a work of visual art different from the ones listed in Module Six, you can clear this substitution with me ahead of time.

TOPIC TWO: Read the Royal Bank of Canada Newsletter's "What Use Is Art?" (277) and then clarify whether you agree with its argument for the "usefulness" of art. According to the definition given in "What Use Is Art?", is television art? How about movies? Tattoos? Jewelry? Video games? What truly separates an art form from a craft, or a piece of art from a commercial product?

NOTE: Do not underestimate the importance of participating in the online discussion forum throughout this term. Participation in this class is worth 20% of your final grade.