The Renaissance Artist at Work

In this course we will explore the role and practice of the Italian Renaissance artist. Through lectures, readings, discussions, and hands-on studios, students will learn about the distinctive forms of training and tradition that all 15th century artists followed, from the now anonymous to celebrities such as Leonardo and Michelangelo. The professions of painter and sculptor were shaped by strict expectations that extended from who could practice to what constituted an apprenticeship. Once weekly, we will create our own (more inclusive) Renaissance studio. Working with a local expert, we will learn to make charcoal and silver point drawings, pounce a cartoon, make small tempera and oil paintings, and even try our hand at fresco technique.