artworks from prehistory to 1400

To begin, select an theme focusing on artworks from prehistory to 1400 looking at a tie between these cultures and the contemporary world. For example, you might look at classical Greek architecture and the parallels to more recent architecture. Or, you may look at Gothic cathedrals and look for parallels in today's world. The idea is to show the influences of these now ancient cultures on contemporary symbolism and culture. 

In a paragraph, explain why you chose the theme that you might explore. Submit by the end of week 2 the discussion forum. Discern whether you will be able to find sufficient research material to organize an exhibition around this theme and possible topic. List at least 2 of your authoritative references with a brief sentence or two describing the content of each one. Your professor will provide feedback.

NOTE: This class covers art from the Middle East and Europe [only] from the Paleolithic period through the end of the Gothic era (23,000BCE-1400CE). Therefor projects need to be constrained to art from those periods and places.

Deliverables:

• Statement of Interest and a Possible Thesis Statement
• 2 Scholarly References Cited in MLA or APA format
• Critical analysis of the sources presented

Here are some possible topic suggestions: 

Exhibition Suggestions

*Some possible exhibition themes; students may suggest others:

Materials and methods/techniques, such as stone, marble, bronze, stained glass, mural painting, mosaics, ceramics [pottery]

Animals in art; Lions in art; snakes in art

Figures on horseback; equestrian monuments

Masks

Plants in art; Gardens in art; Fountains in art

Art and graphics; from cylinder seals to illuminated manuscripts

Family in art; Mother and Child in art

Music and processions

Athletics, sports in art; Roman Coliseum and other sports structures

Bridges, aqueducts, baths and water or civic structures

Theatre in art; theatrical structures

Memorials to the dead

Palaces; burial places; tombs

Jewish, Christian, and Muslim art: similarities and differences

Death in art

The colossal in art

Drapery in art

Processions in art

Towers, Domes, Gates, Arches,

Coins and medals

Water in art: fountains, vessels, bridges, baptisms,

Art and the environment

Circular structures

Geometry and art

Destruction of ancient art in the 21st century