ARTH 160 Introduction to East Asian Art

This course provides an introduction to East Asian art and architecture from ancient times to the present. Although the framework of the course is loosely chronological, each week will focus on in-depth analysis of a different type of object that addresses a particular problem or concept. We will explore topics such as ancient tomb paintings that transform afterlives, the cinematic qualities of medieval handscrolls, metaphorical uses of amorphous ink in calligraphy and painting, the deconstruction of artistic hierarchies in the tea ceremony, and gender and the politics of contemporary performance art. Class trips will be organized to examine objects in local collections. In addition to developing the foundational skills of close looking, critical thinking, and self-reflective writing, students will ultimately gain an understanding of the diversity, complexity, and conceptual excitement of East Asian art.