Assignment: Art/Expression Essay

In this essay, you will discuss an experience related to the art/expression breadth area as the result of engaging in: (1) a personal interview; (2) an observation, or (3) a video/film critique. Keep in mind that you must use each method at least once throughout the course. The essay will demonstrate the ability to step outside one's own sphere of experience and to perceive and think from a global perspective. What does it mean to know and experience the world in aesthetic ways?

Use the following questions to guide your thinking and writing:

1. What Art/Expression related subject did you explore and which format (film, observation, or interview) did you use for your research?

2. How is your subject related to the Art/Expression breadth area?

3. What are the global or cultural implications of your subject?

4. Did exploration of this topic challenge any preconceptions or assumptions you hold?

5. Was your understanding of a global or cultural issue broadened or changed? If so, how?

6. Any surprises or special gifts from your exploration?

7. What was the most important thing you learned and would like to share with others?

The following questions provide additional guidance according to the method you have chosen.

Specific Essay Questions

Film

1. What is the artistic focus of the film (a particular artist, genre, or was the film particularly artful in its presentation of another theme?

2. What did you learn? How was it a learning experience?

3. Did the film challenge any preconceptions or assumptions you hold?

4. How did the film broaden your perspective in the arts?

Observation (Site Visit or Observation via the Web)

1. What Art/Expression related subject did you explore?

2. What are the global or cultural implications of this subject?

3. If applicable, were you able to follow the story/subject in an American news source as well as a foreign one?

4. Did the observation challenge any preconceptions or assumptions you hold?

5. Did the observation broaden your understanding of the selected topic related to this breadth area?

Interview

1. Who did you interview (e.g., profession-painter, photographer, dancer, musician, writer)?

2. Which culture does this person represent or with which cultural themes does he/she work?

3. How are cultural themes expressed or integrated through art?

4. Did the interview challenge any preconceptions or assumptions you hold?

5. Did the interview broaden your understanding of a topic related to this breadth area?