ARTS 1553 Art Appreciation Syllabus W03 Fall 2026

Credit Hours 3.00 Lecture Hours 2 Clinical/Lab Hours 2
Type of Credit
CIP Code
50.0701
Course Description

This course is intended for non-art majors to learn basic information about how visual art forms and applications existing in the everyday world can be used to enrich and enhance the individual's life. Students will receive an overview of art history including major artistic achievements, schools, and trends. The course stresses the development of understanding and appreciation of aesthetic concepts, theory, and criticism. A minimal amount of "hands on" studio experience will provide opportunity for non-art majors to experience the creative processes necessary in many art capacities.

Course Alignment

IAI Number
F2-900
IAI Title
Art Appreciation
General Education Outcomes

General Education Outcomes are the knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes, and behaviors that students are expected to develop as a result of their overall experiences with any aspect of the college, including courses, programs, and student services, both inside and outside of the classroom. The General Education Outcomes specifically learned in this course are:

  1. Communication

Faculty Contact Information

Faculty Name
Victoria Strole
Faculty Email

Course Information

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. The ability to develop, understand and critically analyze the formal design concepts and principles in artworks
  2. A descriptive vocabulary, set of terms, phrases, concepts, and approaches that allows for thinking critically about visual images
  3. An understanding of the processes involved in making art
  4. An awareness of changing art climates and stylistic changes in art
Topical Outline
  1. The purpose and function of art in society
  2. The visual elements
    1. Line
    2. Shape
    3. Space
    4. Color
    5. Value
    6. Texture
  3. The principles of design
    1. Rhythm
    2. Repetition
    3. Unity
    4. Contrast
    5. Balance
    6. Emphasis
  4. Media
    1. Drawing
    2. Painting
    3. Sculpture
    4. Craft media
  5. Art historical application of art appreciation from Cave Art through Postwar Art movements including Western and Non-Western art
Academic Division

Liberal Arts & Sciences

Dean, Jennifer Huggins; 815-802-8484; R310; jhuggins@kcc.edu; Division Office- W102; 815-802-8700

College Policies, Resources and Supports

College Policies

For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non- Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu under the Academic Regulations & Conduct Guide. 

Resources

KCC offers various academic and personal resources for all students. Many services are offered virtually, as well as in person. Please visit Student Resources - Kankakee Community College to access student resources services such as:

  • Clubs and organizations
  • Counseling and referral services
  • Office of disability services
  • Student complaint policy
  • Transfer services
  • Tutoring services, etc.