Course Description

Instructor: Gloria Lawson Sylvester, BFA

“Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen� - Leonardo da Vinci. Visual art and poetry share a symbiotic relationship and in this fun, interactive and casual course we will practice this intimacy. Designed to prepare each Artist-In-Residence for an exhibition at OLLI, our preparation will include the organization of our personal collections of artworks, an artist statement, and public speaking. Using each individual’s visual art as a focal point, we will study the four stages of art criticism to animate your art and poets and writers will review your works using Ekphrastic poetry and writings. We will visit an art gallery and engage experts from the field of art (docent, curator, art gallery owner) who will enhance our knowledge of the world and business of art. The Ekphrastic poems of Natasha Trethewey, among others, will guide our study of Ekphrasis. Artists, art enthusiasts, poets, writers, and observers along with the artwork of others are also welcomed. Class begins January 14.