Historically there has been no distinction in Japanese art between fine art and craft. Japanese culture and aesthetics are addressed in screens, sculpture, architecture, ceramics, fabric, and scrolls, all of which have a utilitarian purpose. This survey of Japanese art examines the visual and historical elements fundamental in the creation of the Japanese aesthetic. In addition much of Japanese art is linked to the two dominant religions in Japan, Shinto and Esoteric Buddhism. This course will explore these links through several art forms such as theater costume, temples, shrines, screens, and objects such as those used in the tea ceremony. Various periods will be discussed, including but not only, the Jomon, Kofum (Haniwa culture), Nara, Heian, Kamakura, and Edo. The class will also look at contemporary Japanese art. We will visit exhibitions at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Japan Society.Pathway: Art and Design History