This course explores definitions of “art” that can apply to the visual arts as well as dance, music, theater, and performance art, and it surveys aesthetic approaches to the contemporary arts from realism to expressionism, formalism, and postmodern pluralism. Students research and critique artworks through these theoretical perspectives while assembling a portfolio of twelve artworks selected from the class readings, discussions, presentations, exhibits, performances, and visiting artists’ talks. The final paper connects some of the artworks and critiques in this portfolio around a central theme or an aesthetic premise, explaining “what does this art do, and how does it do it?” This course fulfills the aesthetics requirement for Lang Arts majors.