From Filippo Brunelleschi's first perspective experiments to Leonardo da Vinci's prolonged study of human anatomy and optics, Renaissance artists exhibited unprecedented interest in the scientific nature of light, color, space, and form as they affected artistic creativity. A no other time in history were technology, science and art so closely interconnected. Lectures and class discussions will focus on the achievements of Italian artists of the 15th and 16th centuries as they attempted to translate their new scientific understanding of the world. Although class discussion is strongly encouraged, this is primarily a lecture course based upon the visual content of art works presented by way of projected slides. Attendance is highly recommended for every class meeting.
Students are responsible for the content of all lectures and assigned reading materials.
Examinations are based on specific material covered in class and on the required readings. Cambridge University Press, 1992. Yale University Press, 1990. Cambridge University Press, 1978. Cambridge University Press, 1992.