NSCI401 BioAesthetics and the Human Animal 3cr

This course explores aesthetics in nature and the evolutionary processes of sensory drive and natural and sexual selection. The course will critically examine both anthropocentric and ecological schemes on the aesthetic diversity of nature, focusing on the creative agency of non-human organisms and objective and subjective models of inquiry. The course evaluates and challenges historical,contemporary and emerging perspectives on what is art, who/what can create it, and on interactions between the arts and sciences. Through a combination of discussion, guest lectures, and collaborative projects students will explore various topics focused around the biological and evolutionary bases of creativity, art and design. There is an optional camping field trip in which we will utilize the natural habitat as our STUDIO+LAB to develop and explore creative methods of biological inquiry, public engagement/outreach, and experimental art. Participation in the camping field trip is strongly encouraged but is not required. Please contact the instructor for more information.

Prerequisites: FRSM-100

Seminar

Spring