Turkey possesses one of the world’s most fascinating histories and richest cultural heritages. It is at once both Eastern and Western, ancient and modern, Christian and Islamic, sensual and austere. A seminar led by independent scholar Nigel McGilchrist pays tribute to this complexity, celebrating the dramatic beauty of Turkey’s landscapes and its wealth of historic monuments and archaeological treasures. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1 credit)
Learn to use a variety of approaches to the medium of embroidery while taking inspiration from the Smithsonian collection. Explore the history of embroidery back to the Middle Ages and together analyze the art form while practicing in a series of guided exercises.
Raphael, one of the High Renaissance’s great masters alongside Michelangelo and Leonardo, rose from Perugino’s apprentice in Urbino to the favored artist of popes and princes. In just two decades, he synthesized influences into serene compositions and ideal beauty, leaving a legacy of harmony and grace before his death at 37. Art historian Elaine Ruffolo explores his extraordinary ascent—from early apprenticeships under Perugino to encounters with Michelangelo and Leonardo in Florence, and finally to his crowning achievements in Rome. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
Procreate for iPad contains powerful features that can be intimidating at any experience level. This 3-hour workshop guides students through advanced techniques using Procreate to create an animated photo illustration.
Miami Beach boasts the world’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture—a pastel landscape of curves, geometry, and seaside style. Urban historian Bill Keene examines Art Deco as a nationwide phenomenon and traces the creation, decline, and revival of the city’s distinctive quarter—designated a U.S. historic district in 1979—and the unique brand of “Tropical Deco” that emerged and thrived there. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
Historian Edward T. O’Donnell explores America’s dramatic shift from neutrality to engagement in World War I, highlighting the war’s overlooked but profound impact. He examines the causes of the conflict, American isolationism, and the pivotal events that led to U.S. involvement. O’Donnell also discusses military mobilization, the nation’s role in defeating the Central Powers, and the domestic consequences, including propaganda, suppression of dissent, and Wilson’s promotion of the League of Nations.
This expanded and updated series is designed to provide a tranquil midday break and let you create small but satisfying works of art as a way to pause and incorporate a bit of creativity into your at-home routines.
Travel journalist Bill Clevlen draws on his book Presidential Road Trips to guide history-lovers through presidential sites across the country. Explore homes, retreats, and landmarks like Madison’s library, Eisenhower’s living room, Johnson’s desk, Kennedy’s Air Force One, Nixon’s helicopter, and Lincoln’s Springfield home. Fill the tank for the ultimate presidential road trip including mansions, museums, grave sites, memorials, historic landmarks—and plenty more.
