An interdepartmental course linking Fine Arts and Japanese Studies, with a focus on selected subjects from the history of the arts in Japan.
Emphasis is placed on a few important periods and forms.
Subjects include Buddhist sculpture, painting, and architecture, noh and kabuki drama, ink painting, tea ceremony, wood block prints, and representative literary texts. A practical introduction to Japanese ink painting and calligraphy. Students learn basic brush and ink techniques and study the esthetics behind the art forms. An individually designed course for students who wish to pursue the study of topics in Japanese, Chinese, or East Asian arts beyond the scope of regular offered courses. The primary emphasis is on the spoken language, but some written materials are also introduced.