This class will serve as an introduction to the arts focusing primarily on the Western Cultural Tradition and will explore the characteristics, style, classification, form, and content of art through critical analysis and relationship to historical events. The student will be exposed to the arts, especially those which have established the foundation for the Western canon; however, it is the main objective of the course to aid in the development of the student's ability to think critically. The student will gain the tools necessary to evaluate art and will then be able to apply these tools, including a critical approach, to other areas and subjects outside of this course. The on-ground fifteen-week sections of this course include a mandatory visit to the Carnegie Museum of Art and/or another art experience as indicated by the instructor.