Sep 28 Monday
Dada and Surrealism emerged as significant art movements in the early 20th century, primarily as a reaction to the devastation and absurdity of World War I. In this course, we explore their origins, and the artists affiliated with both movements. We will look at Hugo Ball, Emmy Hennings, Jean Arp, Hannah Hoch, Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, and more for the Dada movement and surrealists including Andre Breton, Max Ernst, Joan Miro, Salvador Dali, and Meret Oppenheim. We begin with the anti-art movement of Dada, which arose as a reaction to tradition, convention, and rationality. These artists embraced chance and randomness as a form of art making, influencing generations of artists working with increasingly varied materials and techniques. We then discuss how Surrealism used some of these techniques to capture the inner workings of the mind through dreamlike imagery.
This course takes place on Mondays from 10am-12pm (PT) on Zoom and at the Thousand Oaks campus.
The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people ages 50 and older, seeking intellectual stimulation through university level courses — without the pressure of grades — for the sake of learning and social engagement.
Sep 29 Tuesday
In 1935, under President Frank D. Roosevelt's New Deal, the Federal Art Project, a federal economic relief effort organized under the Works Progress Administration, put unemployed artists on the government payroll to paint public murals in post offices, hospitals, and schools. In this course, we will discuss The Federal Art Project and the murals that explored the intersection of politics, economics, and community identity, creating an unprecedented explosion of public art that transformed public spaces into lasting monuments of American history. The Federal Art Project was instrumental in promoting the careers of artists such as Jackson Pollock, Thomas Hart Benton, Jacob Lawrence and others, with the murals focusing on themes of community, labor, local history, and industry.
This course takes place on Tuesdays from 1:30-3:30pm (PT) on Zoom.
Oct 01 Thursday
Inspired by the remarkable careers of music industry legends Clive Davis and Don Kirshner, this four-week course explores the extraordinary impact of two men who transformed American popular music. Clive Davis discovered and signed diverse iconic performers such as Bruce Springsteen, Whitney Houston, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Barry Manilow. Many considered him to be the most prominent and successful record mogul ever. Don Kirshner published and championed new young songwriters whose hits ruled the charts in the 60s. The songs of Carole King, Gerry Goffin, and Neil Sedaka were some of his early successes. Through stories, rare videos, and these unforgettable songs, we'll trace six decades of pop and rock history and celebrate the lasting legacy of two influential music visionaries. A memorable trip down nostalgia lane is guaranteed.
This course takes place on Thursdays from 1:30-3:30pm (PT) on Zoom.
Oct 05 Monday
Oct 06 Tuesday
Oct 07 Wednesday
This two-part lecture invites you to discover why music affects us the way it does. In the first session, we'll explore the emotional and psychological impact of music, and why certain works of music are unforgettable to us. The second session shifts from feeling to craft, revealing how instrumentation, arrangement, and structure work together to create the music we love. By the end of the lectures, you'll not only understand why a piece of music moves you, but also recognize the artistry behind it, transforming the way you listen to music for years to come.
Oct 08 Thursday
Oct 09 Friday
Everyone loves ice cream but, how much do you really know about America's favorite frozen treat? Join ice cream enthusiast Andy Binsley for a fun, informative, and delicious journey through the fascinating world of ice cream.
This interactive presentation explores the rich history of ice cream, from its ancient beginnings to today's premium artisan creations. You'll discover how ice cream is made, what distinguishes premium ice cream from gelato, frozen custard, sorbet, and other frozen desserts, and learn the science behind its smooth texture and irresistible flavor. Along the way, we'll discuss how to evaluate ice cream quality like an expert, examine current health and nutrition topics, and explore the environmental and social issues surrounding dairy and frozen desserts.
Of course, no lecture about ice cream would be complete without tasting it! Participants will sample a variety of frozen treats while learning what makes each one unique. The program also includes surprising facts, unusual flavors from around the world, entertaining stories, and plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion.
Whether you're an occasional ice cream fan or a devoted connoisseur, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for one of the world's most beloved desserts and, perhaps, discover a new favorite flavor.
Oct 12 Monday
Oct 13 Tuesday