Transformed by King Louis XIV from a hunting lodge into one of the most spectacular examples of Baroque art and architecture, the Palace of Versailles was built to stand out and impress. It housed the courts of three kings and oversaw the evolution of at least three different artistic styles. It also is a witness to the fall of the French monarchy. In these four weeks, we look at the history and the causes for the court's move away from Paris, the building of this structure, and at some of the art that fills it, as well as its evolution and its legacy.

Bio:
Katherine E. Zoraster is an Art Historian and a Professor of Art History at several local colleges specializing in Western art from the Renaissance to the 20th century. She graduated with a double major in English Literature and Art History from the University of California, Los Angeles. Following her undergraduate degree, she received a Master’s Degree with Distinction in Art History from the California State University at Northridge.

In addition to the courses Katherine teaches for other lifelong learning programs, she also works as an Art History Instructor for the full-time program at the Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Arts. Katherine also serves as a commissioner for the Burbank Cultural Arts Commission and volunteers at the Burbank Animal Shelter. In her free time, Katherine is an avid runner and travels extensively.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people 50+ years of age, seeking intellectual stimulation through university level courses (without the pressure of grades) for the sake of learning and social engagement.