Courses

Online Digital Curriculum

Crystal Bridges has developed two innovative online courses. The courses are available to be used as HTML files or as resources that allow you to upload them to your own learning management system. They are also available in an LMS known as Agilix Buzz. To use the courses in the Buzz LMS, send an email request to Nile Blunt, Head of School Programs at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Today's American Art: Exploring the Fundamentals of Art

In this course, you’ll explore the works of several contemporary artists working with a variety of techniques. You’ll experiment with these artists’ techniques, ideas, and concepts by creating artworks of your own, inspired by their work. These experimental art projects will help you find an idea that you’ll develop into a body of work. Get ready to play with new ideas, create, have fun, and talk with other students about the process of making art!

Exploring Personal and National Identity Through Art

How is the identity of America represented in the arts? Is it a more accurate and diverse reflection than you would find in a textbook? How has the identity of America changed throughout history? All of these questions and more will be explored in this course as you learn how to discuss and interpret paintings from the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, Crystal Bridges has over five centuries of American Art, from early portrayals of Native Americans to the contemporary art of today. Each of these artworks is a primary source and provides a unique perspective on American history and identity that you cannot find in a history textbook. You will learn how to discuss, interpret, and critique in this class while also learning about careers in museums. The final project will culminate in a student-created exhibition.