Classes

The Meaning of Ancient Greek Gods, for the Ancients and for Us

Joseph Campbell, Carl Jung, and countless poets and artists have found inspiration in the ancient Greek gods for their own ideas. This class will examine a select few of these ancient gods, female and male, for the meaning they held for the ancient Greeks, who worshipped these deities in important rituals. We will then explore why they still resonate for us today, creatively, mythically, psychologically or other ways. The class will highlight these deities: Aphrodite, Apollo, Artemis, Athena, Demeter, Persephone, Dionysos, Hermes.

An Introduction to Tucson’s Remarkable Fine Arts Community

Tucson’s art scene consistently earns high positions in national rankings for cities its size, due to a lively mix of working artists, artisan/crafts studios, galleries large and small, important museums and a rejuvenated Arts District in New Downtown. First-class artists abound, regularly exhibiting in galleries and museums both local and nationwide. The University of Arizona School of Fine Arts is a breeding ground for many successful artists and its faculty show their art world wide. Tucson also has its own artist colony, Rancho Linda Vista in nearby Oracle, Arizona. Our class will focus on the best painters, sculptors, photographers and other artists who have made Tucson their home, including past masters, former residents, established and mid-career players, new arrivals and the up and coming young artists. Guest speakers will include influential artists discussing their theories, practices, passions and insights plus collectors and representatives from museums and galleries. Join us for four classroom sessions and a guided field trip to the Tucson International Airport collection of Tucson art.

Week 1: Climate and Character
Introduction to the Tucson contemporary art scene, history, key institutions and people.

Week 2: Past Masters and Ex-Patriots
Artists who led the way and important artists who began their careers in Tucson.

Week 3: The Working Artists
Current established artists of renown and mid-career artists showing in local galleries and independently.

Week 4: The Brave and the New
Young promising talents at the threshold of their careers.

Week 5: Tucson Airport Collection
Walking tour of the large public art collection featuring Tucson artists.