We can listen to a song or look at a piece of art and think, “That’s cool.” But what happens when we look—and listen—closer? In this course, students will explore a wide range of visual art and music and uncover meaning beyond the surface. By diving into detail, context, and craft, students will learn to decode how creative works reflect human experience, history, identity, and power.
Each week, students will explore a new piece—ranging from contemporary music videos to classical paintings to protest songs—and build interpretations grounded in both analytical thinking and personal insight. Writing will be central: students will craft thoughtful responses that evolve over time, moving toward clarity, depth, and coherence. Students should expect to write at length and with intention each week.
This course directly supports:
Effective Communication: Students will strengthen their ability to identify central ideas and evidence, articulate thoughtful opinions, and revise for clarity and impact. They will use writing as a tool to build and express understanding.
Advanced Social Science: Learners will engage with the cultural and historical dimensions of art and music, examining the impact of race, class, gender, identity, and power across artistic movements and social movements.
Advanced Visual Arts: Students will practice interpreting visual choices made by artists, considering form, symbolism, and design. They will build vocabulary and analytical skills to talk and write about visual composition and meaning.
This course is open to any student willing to write, reflect, and engage in dialogue. No prior experience in art or music is required—just curiosity, openness, and a willingness to go deep.
Cell Phone Policy
No cell phone use during class.