Medieval Multimedia: Altars, Altarpieces and all Things Inbetween

Medieval Multimedia: Altars, Altarpieces and All the Things Inbetween. The halls of traditional museums are often lined with large historic paintings that, in just being hung there, seem to imbue great importance. This course traces the development of painted panels through discussions of the functions and decorations of early medieval altars. It is here that the painted panel as we know it developed through the constant accumulation of stuff and images on the altar which eventually spilled out onto the walls behind. Trace that development with a trained expert on the subject and by covering altar tables, altar textiles, wall painting, and the subsequent rise and function of altarpieces. This workshop will encompass two hours of context and analysis of many amazing medieval examples of altar settings, textiles, sculpture and paintings. A third hour will be reserved for discussion and for students to share their own experiences, interests or creative projects. The course is designed for students with all different backgrounds and interests and no prior art history training is expected or required; just an eagerness to learn and share knowledge openly.