Exploring Global Art.

The eight units in this volume are designed for use by an art teacher/specialist. Thematic ideas are presented, while skills, techniques, and materials are not dictated. The lessons encourage students to compare and contrast cultures, understand their own cultural experiences, and explore differences and commonalities among cultures. The materials guide students to make art works based on contemporary experiences rather than imitative art of another culture. The eight units are structured to include: (1) "Student Notes," which give a broad view of the arts of the region under study; (2) "Questions Related to Student Notes," which serve as models for teacher developed question sheets, examination or assignments; (3) "Vocabulary"; (4) suggested "Slides and Visuals"; and (5)"Projects" relating student art to art of other regions and to their own lives. Unit 1, Introduction, addresses aesthetic questions concerning the definition and nature of art. Unit 2, Africa, includes student notes on "The Mask and Sculpture Traditions of Africa," and "The Influence of African Art on Western Art." Lesson plans cover topics: "The Relief Sculptures of the Benin"; "Clothes Inspired by African Designs"; "African Rulers, Kingdoms and Empires of the Past"; and "Candelabras and the Kwanzaa Celebration." Unit 3, Egypt, gives student notes on "Ancient Egyptian Art," and lesson plans for: "Egyptian Self-Portrait" and "Poetry-Illustrations-Egypt." Unit 4, the Middle East, includes notes on the "Development of Islamic Architecture in the Middle East," and "Middle Eastern Architecture." Lesson plans are: "Illustrating 'The Arabian Nights'"; "Geometric Patterns in Islamic Art"; and "Dream Palace--Islamic Architecture." Unit 5, Latin America, gives notes on "Pre-Columbian Art and Civilizations in Mexico, Central and Southern America" and "Modern Art." Lesson plans are: "Creating a Personal Visual Diary" and "Art as Political Comment (Political Cartoons)." Unit 6, India, gives notes on "India"; "Hinduism"; and "Buddhism." Lesson plans are: "Puppets--The Ramayana" and "Symbolic Sculpture." Unit 7, China, presents notes on "The Arts of China." Lesson plans are: "Sayings and Proverbs"; "Circular Visual Diary"; and "Good Luck Symbolism." Unit 8, Japan, discusses "The Arts of Japan," and offers lesson plans: "Environmental Issues and the Haiku"; "Surrealism and Japanese Music", and "Illustrations Inspired by the Tanabata Folk Tale." Each unit includes several black and white illustrations. The work concludes with a 92-item bibliography and information about ordering Global Art Slide Sets. (MM)