2016 Spring Catalog

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Vision and Talent Unleashed:
The Italian Renaissance NEW!
A renaissance took place at different times in different places in
Western Europe, both prior to and during the 14th through 16th
centuries. In some regions, the emphasis was on literature. In
others, it was on science, exploration, and philosophy. But the
most well known renaissance — realizing its greatest achievements
in art — happened in Italy. The Italian Renaissance was definitely
one of the most exciting eras ever. In this course, we will explore
its developments from c. 1300 to 1520, to examine the glittering
excitement and deadly intrigues of a culture that produced many
of the world’s greatest masterpieces in art. Such artists as Giotto,
Masaccio, Donatello, and Brunelleschi will be discussed — and
we’ll see how they made it possible for the likes of Leonardo,
Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian to reach such extraordinary
heights. We’ll encounter such fascinating personalities as the
Medici, Pico della Mirandola, Savonarola, Pope Julius II, and
Machiavelli on our journey, along with the literature, mysteries,
myths, and scandals that characterized the period. See Trips
section for optional trip led by the Instructor to The Met to view
the paintings being discussed.
Jill Keifer: see Museum Exhibit Previews
3 Thursdays: May 5 – 19: 9:30 – 11:30 am
Larchmont Temple Rm 3 / $90 /
American Dilemmas In the Middle East NEW!
The US has vital interests but inconsistent policies in the Middle East.
We’ll debate whether and how the US should get entangled in Mideast
conflicts. Open-ended lectures will explore historical legacies and
current options. The first two classes focus on the Israeli-Palestinian
conflict and the second two on the Iran-Iraq conflict zone.
Naomi Weinberger, PhD, is Adjunct Professor at the School of
International and Public Affairs (SIPA) of Columbia University.
Her primary academic interests are in international security studies,
with expertise in the Middle East.
4 Wednesdays: Mar 9 – Apr 6: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
(No class Mar 23)
Larchmont Temple Rm 1 / $120 / Code 157
The Tragedy of Syria NEW!
How has a prominent Arab country with a vibrant society been
reduced to a tormented, failed state? We will consider three
dimensions of Syria’s experience: historical legacies (from
Ottoman times through the rule of the Assads); regional rivals
and partners (Israel, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran); and ongoing turbulence
(insurrection, ISIS, humanitarian calamity, future prospects).
Naomi Weinberger, Ph.D., is Adjunct Professor at the School of
International and Public Affairs (SIPA) of Columbia University.
Her primary academic interests are in international security studies,
with expertise in the Middle East.
3 Wednesdays: April 13 – 27: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
(No class Mar 23)
Larchmont Temple Rm 1 / $90 /
The Street Art Movement NEW!
The world’s current engagement with Street Art had its begin-
nings in New York City neighborhoods in the 1970’s. The
growth of graffiti had humble origins in a sprawling diversity
that thrived on personal style, the need to belong, and a youthful
compulsion for competition and risk. Young bombers from all
over the United States and Europe took their inspiration from the
bold personal statements and larger-than-life exploits of subway
graffiti gangs and personalities during the 1970’s and 80’s.
Outside the US, all of the major metropolitan areas of the world
now boast a thriving, expressive community of artists who take
their thoughts, observations and opinions to the street. Nurtured
and supported internationally, but often still vilified in the United
States, this vital, contemporary art form is embraced by some
of the most talented and original artists in the world today. We’ll
explore the origins and history of urban art, examine a broad
variety of media and technique, and survey major artists and
sites both in the United States and internationally.
Martin Merchant had his first career in professional photography
and a second as a high school teacher. For the last 10 years, he
has presented workshops in all aspects of photography, digital
media and urban art making — from the cultural significance
of tattoos to hip-hop art, music, and literature. Driven by the
expressive power of graffiti and street art and the richness of its
history and meaning, he has made the study and appreciation of
local street artists and their work a personal mission.
Thursday: Apr 28:
9:30 – 11:30 am
Larchmont Temple Rm 2 / $35 /
Kabbalah: Truth vs. Myth NEW!
Kabbalah is an ancient Jewish interpretation of the Bible and not,
as many claim, mysticism. We’ll examine its history, traditions,
major texts and personalities, and its relevance to us today. What
is practical Kabbalah? Is Madonna a Kabbalist? These questions
and more will be answered using source documents.
Ze’ev Aviezer earned a BA degree in economics from Hunter
College, an MS degree in counseling from Lehman College
CUNY and his MA in Religious Education from Hebrew Union
College’s Institute of Religion.
4 Fridays: Apr 8 – May 13:
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
(No class Apr 22, April 29)
Larchmont Temple Rm 4 / $120 /
DISCUSSION & LECTURES