Olmec Art

🌳 Embark on a Visual Odyssey: Olmec Art for the Curious Mind

Course Title:

Art of the Mother Culture for Artists, Travelers, and Adventurers

Course Headline:

Discover the Enigmatic Masterpieces of the Olmec with Expert Instructor Federico von Borstel

Course Description:

Dive into the lush jungles of ancient Mesoamerica and uncover the lost treasures of the Olmec civilization, known as the "Mother Culture" for its profound influence on later societies. This online course is a unique opportunity to explore one of the most intriguing art periods in history, directly taught by Federico von Borstel, an authority on Olmec culture with over three Senior Scholar Fulbright awards under his belt.

🏞️ A Journey Through Time and Art: Embark on a visual adventure as you study the monumental works of the Olmec civilization. From the powerful imagery of the Central Deity to the evolution of Mesoamerican rain and maize gods, each lesson is crafted to take you deeper into the heart of this enigmatic culture's artistic legacy.

🎨 Key Course Highlights:

• Welcome & Table of Contents (Lecture 1): Get acquainted with the course structure and what awaits you in your exploration of Olmec art.

• The Olmec Heartland (Lecture 2): Explore the geographical origins of the Olmec and understand their impact on Mesoamerican civilization.

• The Central Deity (Lecture 3): Delve into the mythology and significance of one of the most iconic figures in Olmec art—the Central Deity, known as a were-jaguar.

• Figurative Art (Lecture 4): Analyze the intricate details and meanings behind Olmec figurines and portrait masks.

• Proportions of Olmec Sculptures (Lecture 5): Learn about the unique proportions that define Olmec sculptures and their symbolic significance.

• Tlapacoya and Tlatilco (Lecture 6): Discover two of the most important archaeological sites associated with the Olmec culture.

• Postures & Transformations (Lectures 7 & 8): Understand the various postures and transformative themes depicted in Olmec art.

• Portrait and Deity Masks (Lecture 9): Uncover the stories behind the masks that represent both mortals and gods.

• Monumental Heads (Lecture 10): Study the iconic monumental heads, symbols of power and reverence for the Olmec.

• Flora and Fauna (Lecture 11): Examine how the Olmec depicted their natural world in art.

• Non-figurative and Abstract Designs (Lecture 12): Explore the abstract elements of Olmec art and what they might represent.

• Celts and Olmec Theology (Lecture 13): Investigate the connections between the Olmec civilization and the Celts, and delve into their theological beliefs.

• Monuments and Stelas from La Venta (Lecture 14): Learn about the major archaeological site of La Venta and its significance in the Olmec culture.

• Beginnings of Writing: Images to Symbols (Lecture 15): Discover how the Olmec developed some of the first forms of writing.

By enrolling in this course, you'll not only gain a deeper understanding of one of the most significant pre-Columbian cultures but also appreciate the foundations upon which Mesoamerican art and culture were built. Whether you're an artist seeking inspiration, a traveler with a thirst for history, or an adventurer looking to explore the unknown, this course is your gateway into the mesmerizing world of Olmec art.

Join us on this artistic voyage and let the mysteries of the Olmec civilization unfold before your eyes. 🌟