[Q]-Lehrende im Wintersemester 2010/2011

Masters course, 2 SWS, 5 CP
Averhoffstr. 38, venue 16b, Wednesday 14.15 - 15.45

Architectural styles throughout history have been grouped into eras such as Renaissance, Baroque or Jugendstil/Art Nouveau. One could examine the aesthetic distinctions between these artistic epochs, but one could also peer deeper into the Symbology inherent in the art form itself. The popular movie "Illuminati" brought the public's attention to the meanings found in paintings, statues, buildings and art, which oftentimes are lessons and teachings left for future generations. Why is the statue of the Roman god Mercury found in so many cities? Was the zodiac, placed in or near clocks and engraved in stone on churches, more than an attractive design? We go beyond decoration and style in compositions to seek the hidden meanings found in art and symbols.

This course will outline various systems of Symbology as taught by specific cultures and religions. We will examine various symbolic systems, including Chinese Taoist symbols, numerology, astrology, Tarot, colors and religious motifs. From ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman motifs to Christian, Islamic, Mayan and Taoist iconography, we will explore cultural symbols, what they mean and where to find them. The students will be encouraged to find specific instances of Symbology in art and architecture.

Masters course, 2 SWS, 5 CP
Averhoffstr. 38, venue 16c, Wednesday 14.15 - 15.45

Architectural styles throughout history have been grouped into eras such as Renaissance, Baroque or Jugendstil/Art Nouveau. One could examine the aesthetic distinctions between these artistic epochs, but one could also peer deeper into the Symbology inherent in the art form itself. The popular movie "Illuminati" brought the public's attention to the meanings found in paintings, statues, buildings and art - much of which is infused with Symbology or lessons and teachings left for future generations. It takes time and attention to look, understand, and comprehend the meanings. This course will outline various systems of Symbology as taught by specific cultures and religions. From ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman motifs to Christian, Islamic and Taoist symbols, we will explore cultural symbols, what they mean and where to find them. The students will be encouraged to find specific instances of Symbology in art and architecture.

Whole Mayan cities were designed according to celestial movements such as the solstice and equinox: an eccentric and regulated injunctive or an important part of a belief system which they wished to honor and "immortalize" in stone works? What did the statue, the image, of the knight, Roland, have for the Europeans in the 14th Century? Why is the statue of the Roman god Mercury found in so many cities? Was the zodiac, placed in or near clocks and engraved in stone on churches, more than an attractive design? We go beyond decoration and style in art and composition to seek the hidden meanings found in themes and symbols. Examination of various symbolic systems, including Chinese Taoist symbols, Viking Runes, numerology, astrology, Tarot, colors and religious motifs.