part 1:Read pages 31-48 in online text.

Graffiti as Art? The word graffiti is a plural derivation from the Latin word graffito, which was derived from the Greek word graphein meaning “to write.” Some of the earliest graffiti was found in Pompeii, carved into the walls of homes and monuments. Subject matter included quotations from literature, insults, political statements and caricatures, and love declarations. (Sound familiar?) Today, graffiti continues from its ancient legacy to evolve into “writing” by using spray paint.

Graffiti can be found on virtually any viaduct or railroad car in the United States. Examine more of this history and its evolution to an art form (albeit illegal art form) today.

1. Richard Serra’s sculpture, Tilted Arc, was removed and destroyed eight years after it was created. The work was heavily criticized by those who worked nearby. Many objected to its enormous size, which forced them to walk around it when they wanted to cross the plaza. Part of Serra’s intention, however, was to make people more aware of their surroundings as they walked past the sculpture. Some objected to the raw steel wall because its rust-like surface was often covered with graffiti and could not be completely cleaned.

Others thought the sculpture might attract rats or terrorists. Graffiti is a common sight in many cities, and much of it is regularly cleaned off, painted over, or obliterated quickly as it appears on bridges, subway trains, or warehouse walls. Many people perceive the spray-paint works as eyesores, signs of gang activity, or illicit damage to public and private property. Yet to many graffiti artists, their work is a way to make an individual mark on an uncaring city or even a form of personal expression that should be respected. They point out that people do not object when billboards and bus shelter ads appear without their approval. Recently, some art museums have commissioned graffiti art on walls near their institutions, and some graffiti artists ask permission before making a work.
Is it really graffiti if it is legal? Does art belong only in certain places?
Should people have the right to determine what imagery is in public spaces around them, and how it looks?

Does graffiti have merit? Should graffiti be an area of study given its illegal history in the United States? Why is it illegal if it has been practiced for thousands of years?
Post your answers to this discussion and respond to at least 2 others within 24 hours after the due date.

Part 2:Hello Class!

For our course this term, we will focus on the principles of humanities! We will learn how to examine, compare, analyze,
evaluate, interpret, and discuss creative works within their cultural contexts. Before we begin, let us introduce ourselves and think about what we currently know about the humanities.
For your initial post (Due by Jan 12 Sunday 11:59p):
What is your name and major?
Why are you taking this course? General interest? Graduation requirement? Please share!

Do you have a creative outlet? Do you paint, cook, garden, or create anything? Please elaborate and share pictures if appropriate.
Please define the Humanities as you currently know them. Do not cheat! (Do not look up the definition, use whatever comes to mind)
For your replies (Due by Jan 12 Sunday 11:59p):
Please respond to at least two of your classmates, but feel free to comment on more!
You may respond by noting your own knowledge.
Comment if you are interested in learning more.
Respond with any positive comments or constructive questions.
Once you complete your post, continue on to this week’s videos and readings.

Part 3:Hello, Again Class!

Now that you have watched and read about the Humanities, let us sit with our thoughts for a moment…
Think about how Pennington and Leezenberg presented the humanities in the texts.
For your initial post (Due by Jan 12 Sunday 11:59p):
What are the humanities based on the two texts? Use examples when possible.
Has your definition of the humanities differed from your Introduction Post pt.1? What has changed?
Do you feel as if the humanities are a part of your everyday life? Explain.
For your replies
Please respond to at least two of your classmates, but feel free to comment on more!
You may respond by noting your own knowledge.
Comment if you are interested in learning more.
Respond with any positive comments or constructive questions.

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