FIF 632 - Great Artists of the Italian Renaissance

Course Description

No era of artistic achievement is as renowned as the Renaissance, and 15th-century Italy is the centre of this cultural explosion. The supreme works created in Florence, Rome, Venice, and other Italian cities by such masters as Leonardo da Vinci, Brunelleschi, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian have no parallel in history. We will study these key artists and their contributions to art history including mathematical perspective, rediscovery of the classical elements, and their relentless search for the perfection of balance and harmony. Along with the aesthetic and stylistic qualities of the works, we will discuss the historical, political, and religious context in which this art was created.

Course Details

Learning Outcomes:

• Build an understanding of the main characteristics of the Renaissance style and of the conditions that led to it
• Analyze art works against the background of religious, social and political conditions in Renaissance Italy
• Identify major monuments and works of art of this period
• Identify major artists of this period
• Gain knowledge of terminology, stylistic classifications, methods, and theories employed in art and architectural history
• Explore the rich artistic and historical heritage of the western world through art

Instructor

Marina Fischer, MA, studied history of art, classics and ancient history at the University of Calgary. Her research and interests focus on art, architecture, ancient world, numismatics, early Christianity, and gender studies. Marina works as Collections Specialist at Nickle Galleries, Library and Cultural Resources, at the University of Calgary Library and shares her passion for teaching through her Continuing Education courses.