American Art – Before 1865

Unit 1 – American Art: Origins to 1865

Unit 2 – Native American Art and Culture

Unit 3 – Colonial Art and Architecture

Unit 4 – Early American Portraiture

Unit 5 – American Revolution & Federal Period Art

Unit 6 – American Neoclassicism and Romanticism

Unit 7 – Hudson River School: American Landscapes

Unit 8 – Genre Painting: Rise of American Realism

Unit 9 – American Still Life Painting

Unit 10 – Early 19th Century American Sculpture

Unit 11 – Early American Photography: Daguerreotype Era

Unit 12 – American Art and the Civil War

## What do you learn in American Art Before 1865

You'll explore American visual culture from colonial times to the Civil War. The course covers paintings, sculptures, and architecture, focusing on how art reflected the nation's identity, politics, and social issues. You'll study famous artists like John Singleton Copley and Thomas Cole, and learn about different artistic movements like the Hudson River School.

## Is American Art Before 1865 hard?

It's not the easiest class, but it's definitely manageable. The trickiest part is memorizing all the artists, dates, and art movements. But once you get the hang of analyzing artworks and understanding their historical context, it becomes pretty interesting. The workload can be heavy with readings and essays, but nothing a motivated student can't handle.

## Tips for taking American Art Before 1865 in college

1. Use [Fiveable Study Guides](https://fiveable.me/cram-mode) to help you cram for exams and quizzes. 🌶️
2. Create a timeline of major events and art movements to visualize the progression of American art.
3. Practice describing artworks out loud to improve your visual analysis skills.
4. Visit local museums to see American art in person, if possible.
5. Watch documentaries like "American Visions" by Robert Hughes for additional context.
6. Make flashcards for key artists and their most famous works, like Gilbert Stuart's "Lansdowne Portrait" of George Washington.
7. Form a study group to discuss readings and share notes.

## Common pre-requisites for American Art Before 1865

1. Introduction to Art History: This course provides a broad overview of art from prehistoric times to the present. It introduces key concepts and terminology used in art analysis.

2. American History to 1865: This class covers the major political, social, and economic developments in America from colonization to the Civil War. It provides essential historical context for understanding American art.

## Classes similar to American Art Before 1865

1. American Art After 1865: This course picks up where American Art Before 1865 leaves off, covering artistic developments from the end of the Civil War to the present day. It explores movements like Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art.

2. Native American Art: This class focuses on the artistic traditions of indigenous peoples in North America. It covers a wide range of media, from ancient pottery to contemporary paintings.

3. European Art 1700-1900: This course examines European art during the same time period as American Art Before 1865. It allows students to compare and contrast artistic developments on both sides of the Atlantic.

4. History of Photography: This class traces the development of photography as an art form, including early American photographers like Mathew Brady and his Civil War images.

## Majors related to American Art Before 1865

1. Art History: Students study the history of visual arts across different cultures and time periods. Art historians analyze artworks, research their historical context, and explore the role of art in society.

2. American Studies: This interdisciplinary major examines American culture, history, and society. Students explore various aspects of American life, including literature, politics, and visual arts.

3. Museum Studies: This field prepares students for careers in museums and cultural institutions. Students learn about collection management, exhibition design, and the role of museums in preserving and interpreting art and history.

4. Historic Preservation: This major focuses on protecting and conserving historic buildings and artifacts. Students learn about architectural history, conservation techniques, and the legal aspects of preservation.

## What can you do with a degree in American Art Before 1865?

1. Museum Curator: Curators oversee museum collections, organize exhibitions, and conduct research. They select artworks for display and write interpretive materials to educate the public.

2. Art Conservator: These professionals preserve and restore artworks and historical artifacts. They use scientific techniques and artistic skills to maintain the integrity of valuable pieces.

3. Art Appraiser: Appraisers determine the value of artworks for insurance, sale, or tax purposes. They need extensive knowledge of art history and current market trends.

4. Arts Education Coordinator: These professionals develop and implement educational programs for museums, galleries, or schools. They create engaging ways to teach people about art and its historical context.

## American Art Before 1865 FAQs

1. How much writing is involved in this course? Expect to write several essays and possibly a longer research paper. You'll also have shorter writing assignments analyzing specific artworks.

2. Are there any field trips in this class? Some professors organize visits to local museums or galleries, but it varies. Check the syllabus or ask your professor about potential field trips.

3. Do I need to be good at drawing to take this course? Not at all! This is an art history course, not a studio art class. You'll be analyzing and writing about art, not creating it.

Art History

1.4 Evolution of Artistic Techniques and Mediums

1.3 Key Artists and Their Contributions

1.2 Major Artistic Movements and Influences

1.1 Historical and Cultural Context of Early American Art

2.1 Diverse Artistic Traditions of Indigenous Peoples

2.3 Material Culture and Craftsmanship

2.4 Impact of European Contact on Native American Art

2.2 Symbolism and Spirituality in Native American Art

3.1 European Influences on Colonial American Art

3.2 Portraiture and Religious Painting in Colonial America

3.3 Colonial Architecture and Decorative Arts

3.4 Regional Variations in Colonial Art

4.2 Techniques and Styles in Early American Portraiture

4.1 The Rise of American Portrait Painters

4.3 Portraiture as Social and Historical Documentation

4.4 Key Portrait Artists and Their Works

5.3 Federal Period Architecture and Design

5.1 Art as Propaganda and Patriotism

5.2 Emergence of American Iconography

5.4 Post-Revolutionary Portraiture and History Painting

6.3 Key Neoclassical and Romantic American Artists

6.4 Themes and Subjects in American Neoclassicism and Romanticism

6.1 Influence of European Neoclassicism and Romanticism

6.2 American Adaptations of Neoclassical and Romantic Styles

7.4 Legacy and Influence of the Hudson River School

7.1 Origins and Development of the Hudson River School

7.2 Major Artists and Their Distinctive Styles

7.3 Themes of Nature, Nationalism, and Spirituality

8.2 Depictions of Everyday Life and Social Commentary

8.3 Key Genre Painters and Their Works

8.4 Transition from Romanticism to Realism

8.1 Emergence of Genre Painting in America

9.2 Symbolism and Meaning in American Still Life

9.4 Still Life Painting and American Material Culture

9.3 Major Still Life Artists and Their Techniques

9.1 Development of Still Life as a Distinct Genre

10.2 Neoclassical Influences on American Sculpture

10.3 Major Sculptors and Their Works

10.1 Emergence of American Sculptural Traditions

10.4 Public Monuments and Commemorative Sculpture

11.2 Technical Developments and Artistic Applications

11.3 Portraiture and Documentation in Early Photography

11.4 Impact of Photography on Traditional Art Forms

11.1 Introduction of Photography to America

12.4 Photography and Visual Documentation of the War

12.3 Home Front and Social Issues in Civil War Art

12.1 Artistic Responses to the Civil War

12.2 Depictions of Battle Scenes and Military Life

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.

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