Art as a Reflection of Society: A Brief Introduction to Four Major Art Movements

Adults (18+) Thursday 7-9pm, January 18 to February 8, 2024

This study focuses largely on the ways in which art reflects the other dimensions of society, and how one movement leads to another. The course covers four major European art movements, from the 17th to the 20th century: Classicism, Romanticism, Realism, and Modernism. It reveals the main characteristics of each movement, while contrasting it with the previous and following movements. It provides insight into the intellectual, political, and cultural tendencies of society which both reflect and propel each movement. A brief overview of the major artists of each period will also bring to light the essential traits of the movements being considered.

This course was very exciting and interesting, with so many large photos on the screen in vivid color of art works through these ages, and I learned how ideas and elements in art developed; now I’m understanding the thread through the last several centuries that is art, and I can name the components in artworks that come from the different periods. Dr. Haskett has filled the material with relevant facts and knowledge about the artists and their art, as well as the role art played in the centuries. It surely highlights the power, importance and effects that art has in our world, and gives a foundation for making art now. -Student, A.E.

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With a PhD in French Literature, Dr. Kelsey Haskett developed a university French program, both developing and teaching courses in language, literature, and culture, including French Civilization.  Also teaching French Civilization in France, she loved incorporating art history into the teaching of the culture and history of each period that she covered. Visiting art museums and exhibits throughout France and in Europe was a passion. With these, plus being an artist herself, Dr. Haskett appreciates historical art insights and sharing them with her students.

See her full bio here.