This course, “Analysis and commentary on the most important artistic expressions in Spanish-Muslim art,”  consists of 14 sessions lasting one hour and a half, taught by Professor Marisa Campillo, and has the goal of providing participants with the tools necessary to describe and analyze Spanish-Muslim art from different eras, and to acknowledge and distinguish some of its main works of architecture.

It is intended for all people who wish to learn about and analyze Islamic art in Andalusia, regardless of the academic background which they possess. The course contents and corresponding guided tours through Cordoba, Seville and Granada (for which those students who are interested will be responsible), shall be taking place throughout 14 weeks, from February through May of 2020.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

- To provide participants with all of the knowledge they need for a greater awareness about their artistic and cultural environment.
- Based on historical context, describing and analyzing Spanish-Muslim art from different periods.
- Recognizing and distinguishing the main architectural works, using artistic language and the proper specific terminology.
- Promoting social communication through interpersonal relationships.

METHODOLOGY

The course follows an active, participatory methodology that allows those attending to form their own criteria and express them. It will be based on:

1.- Weekly live sessions in person lasting an hour and a half.
At these sessions, different teaching resources will be used, including PowerPoint presentations, videos, charts, maps, timelines etc.

2.- Guided tours of the most important artistic monuments in this style located in Andalusia, including Cordoba, Seville and Granada (optional).

Session calendar

A.- Introduction to Art History and architectural terminology. Guidelines for analyzing and commenting on a work of architecture. (February 11)

B.- Historical context of Spanish-Muslim art.
- Introduction to Islam. (February 18)
- Al-Andalus: Political change, economics and society.  (February 25).

First period: Art of the emirs and caliphs, 8th-11th centuries:
- The Palace of Medina Azahara. (October 13)
- Tour of the Palace of Medina Azahara. (October 20)

Second period: Art of the “taifa” kingdoms, Almoravids and Almohads, 11th-13th centuries:
- The Giralda and Torre del Oro in Seville. (October 27)
- Tour of Seville. (November 3)

Third period: Nasrid art, 13th-15th centuries:
- The Alhambra and Generalife in Granada. (November 10)
- Tour of Granada. (November 17)

This calendar is subject to change.

Marisa Campillo
Marisa Campillo Martín holds a degree in Geography and History from the University of Granada and is a professor of Art History.