Art of the Ancient Americas

This course surveys the visual culture of Mesoamerica and South America from pre-history to the Spanish conquest. The comparative analysis of social, religious, political, and economic messages sent by these objects and monuments will elucidate patterns of interaction, continuity, disjunction, and adaptation through time and space. Discipline specific approaches and vocabulary will be introduced and individual works will be analyzed in relation to their political, social, religious, economic, cosmological, and philosophical contexts. Cultural awareness and visual, stylistic, and cultural literacy will be emphasized, both within and across geographic regions and times. Recommended Prep: ENGL V01A or concurrent enrollment. Field trips may be required. Transfer credit: CSU; UC.