Critical Conversations: bridging pathways forward to greater understanding and creative solutions.

MSCI-383 Earth,art,design and Architecture

3 Credits

In this course, we will examine and appreciate the links between earth and environmental sciences and cultural aspects of society. In the first half of the semester, the course focuses on select themes deriving from the geologic discourse, paying particular attention to the links between earth materials and processes of art, technology, architecture, and other aspects of culture. We will examine minerals and rocks in relation to their physical and chemical properties, and how these properties have been put into cultural applications globally and historically. In the second half of the semester, we will study the interrelationships between the natural environment and creative expression. Specifically, we will examine artworks that: a) represent or reference the earth's systems and their aesthetic appreciation and interpretation; b)engage with or draw attention to current discourses on ecology and environmental sustainability; and c) engage with, draw attention to, or aim to change social and political attitudes towards the environment. Classes are structured around selected readings, lectures, discussion, and in-class activities. These in-class activities are supplemented with a field trip, film screenings, collaborative or individual mini research assignments, frequent oral critiques, and a final research project. Upon successful completion, this course is worth 3 credits and fulfills the General Education post-CORE elective requirement and a Sustainability Studies minor elective requirement.