Unit 1: Project 1: Write down what your aim is: why are you taking this course and what do you want to get out of it?

Art is a subjective matter. Anyone can look at art and have an opinion about it. They can like or dislike it, they may find it interesting or boring, but such an opinion is a superficial one based on one passing look. I believe that to understand art better and deeper, one must have knowledge on how to look at art in a more objective manner.

Art history is a subject that has accumulated ideas and opinions from people who have looked at art in the past and in the present. This knowledge is an essential ‘language’ needed to understand art.  

It has broken down the subjectivity of art into more manageable, classifiable and objective portions: lines, tones, textures, colours; themes and purposes; techniques; movements; history. Having a knowledge that is more objective enable one to view art in a more purposeful and standardized manner.

The development of art in the past follows the history of the world. It is a reflection of man and his creativity and their interaction with the society and the environment. Such an understanding not only can enable a person to understand more about the past but also about himself and his present society.

An art work is a physical view or object. However, understanding an art work must go beyond its physical boundaries. The knowledge of its artist, history, meaning and symbolism is also needed to have a deeper understanding.

I believe that knowledge in art history also enables one to communicate his ideas in a universal language. For example, when one talks about ‘sfumato’, it will be understood as an Italian painting technique whether one is in China or in North America. Thus, a subjective idea such as art can be communicated effectively with such knowledge.

An understanding of the history of art enables one to look at and critique art of the present and the future. This ability is useful to understand the present society, their motivation and their social evolution.

My aim in taking this course is to gain knowledge that would enable me to understand art in a more deeper and objective manner, to learn more about art in the past, to enjoy art in the present and to have the ability to communicate about art in the future.