Choose only 1 of the 2 topics below.Using your course lesson readings and completing additional research (begin with SmartHistory), fully follow the steps outlined. Post your initial response to Forum Week 4. Include links to any research references you used. Then, read your classmates’ and instructor’s postings and respond to at least 2 other students. In your peer responses, use the strategies described in the forum posting requirements below to further the discussion

W4: Sculpture and Architecture

Contains unread postsMust post first.

Course Objective(s): 

• CO2: Identify major artists and their time periods in Western and Non-Western art.
• CO3: Interpret art terminology in relationship to works of art.
• CO4: Describe major works of art.
• CO6: Analyze works of art within their social and historical contexts.

Choose only 1 of the 2 topics below.Using your course lesson readings and completing additional research (begin with SmartHistory), fully follow the steps outlined. Post your initial response to Forum Week 4. Include links to any research references you used. Then, read your classmates’ and instructor’s postings and respond to at least 2 other students. In your peer responses, use the strategies described in the forum posting requirements below to further the discussion.

Topic #1 Site-Specific Sculpture. Research, examine, and discuss two of the following sculptures:

Robert Smithson, Spiral Jetty, 1970. Great Salt Lake, UT
Serpent Mound, c. 1070. Adams County, Ohio
Andy Goldsworthy, Slits Cut into Frozen Snow, 1988, Blencathra, Cumbria

These are all site-specific sculptures, meaning they were designed specifically for the physical place we find them. Often they are referred to as earthworks or land art. Examine and discuss two of these works. Your response should discuss:

• The artist’s background and interests (if known)
• The time period and culture of the sculpture
• How site-specific sculpture differs from traditional sculpture found in museums and galleries
• What gives meaning to the sculpture, or why is it important?

Compare the two sculptures. What are their points of similarity in terms of purpose, construction, meaning? What are the differences? 

OR

Topic #2 Architecture. Research, examine, and discuss two of the following buildings:

The Colosseum (also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre), 70–80 AD. Rome, Italy
Alexandre Auguste Eiffel, The Eiffel Tower, 1887, Paris, France
Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater, 1938-39, Mill Run, PA

Architecture is often discussed in terms of three dimensions, as though it was large scale sculpture, but architecture always has a specific function. Your discussion should address:

• The time period and culture of the structure
• The architect (if known) and patron
• The building’s function
• Its materials — what is it made of?
• Special construction techniques used
• Why the building is considered important. Be specific.

Compare the two structures. Are there similarities between the two? What are the differences in terms of construction and function? 

To get the highest grade possible, please review and follow the Discussion Guidelines & Grading Rubric.