डॉ. बी. आर. अम्बेडकर विश्वविद्यालय दिल्ली 
| Course Type | Course Code | No. Of Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Discipline Core | SCC1VA108 | 2 |
Programme Coordinator: Dr. Kshama Divedi
1. Does the course connect to, build on or overlap with any other courses offered in AUD?
No. This is a foundational theory course that introduces students to the historical development of prehistoric art. It complements studio courses by providing historical and cultural understanding but does not overlap with any other course.
2. Specific requirements on the part of students who can be admitted to this course: None (Pre-requisites; prior knowledge level; any others – please specify) None.
The course is designed for first-year undergraduate students. No prior knowledge of Art History is required.
3. No. of students to be admitted (with justification if lower than usual cohort size is proposed):
Usual cohort size as approved for the Bachelor of Visual Arts (BVA) programme.
4. Course scheduling (semester; semester-long/half-semester course; workshop mode; seminar mode; any other – please specify):
Semester-long, Semester-long, Lecture-based Course with Visual Presentations.
5. How does the course link with the vision of AUD?
The course supports AUD's vision by encouraging historical understanding, critical inquiry, and interdisciplinary learning. It introduces students to the origins of artistic expression and develops awareness of cultural heritage, visual traditions, and human creativity.
6.How does the course link with the specific programme(s) where it is being offered?
History of Art–I provides the historical and conceptual foundation for the Bachelor of Visual Art programme. It complements studio practice by helping students understand the evolution of visual culture and artistic traditions.
Course Description:
Design & Digital Media–I is a foundation practical course that introduces students to the basic principles of design and digital media. The course focuses on two-dimensional and three-dimensional design using geometric forms, simple materials, and digital tools. Students explore visual organization, spatial relationships, creativity, and problem-solving through studio practice and digital applications. The course also introduces AI-assisted creative tools and encourages experimentation, sustainability, and innovative visual thinking, providing a strong foundation for advanced studies in design and digital arts
Course Objectives:
The course aims to:
- Introduce the origin and development of prehistoric art.
- Understand the characteristics of Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic art.
- Develop the ability to analyse cave paintings and early visual traditions.
- Explore the relationship between art, culture, and early human society.
- Build a foundation for further studies in Art History.
Course Outcomes: At the end of the course students will be able to:
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CO1 |
Explain the origin and development of prehistoric art. |
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CO2 |
Identify the characteristics of major prehistoric art traditions.. |
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CO3 |
Analyse cave paintings and symbolic visual forms. |
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CO4 |
Interpret the socio-cultural significance of prehistoric art. |
|
CO5 |
Apply historical understanding to further studies in visual arts. |
Modules and Readings
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Module 1 (Lecture Hours Weeks 1–5)
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Module Name: History of Prehistoric Art in India This module introduces the origin and development of prehistoric art in India with special reference to the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Students examine early artistic practices, tools, materials, stylistic developments and the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled communities. Readings with page numbers:
Suggested Readings: E.H. Gombrich, The Story of Art. Hugh Honour & John Fleming, A World History of Art. Moti Chandra, Ancient Indian Art.
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Module 2 (Lecture Hours Weeks 6-10) |
Module Name: Cave Paintings and Socio-Cultural Significance This module explores the origin and development of cave paintings with reference to Bhimbetka, Pachmarhi and Mirzapur. It examines techniques, themes, symbolism and the socio-cultural significance of prehistoric art, highlighting its role in communication, ritual and early human life. Readings with page numbers
Suggested Readings: Paul Bahn, Prehistoric Art. David Lewis-Williams, The Mind in the Cave. V.S. Wakankar, Bhimbetka: The Prehistoric Paradise. Fred S. Kleiner, Gardner's Art Through the Ages. Arnold Hauser, The Social History of Art. |
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Module 3 (Lecture Hours Weeks 11-15) |
Module Name: Practical / Tutorial Component Activities / Short Project Visual analysis of prehistoric cave paintings. Presentation on Bhimbetka or other prehistoric sites. Timeline of prehistoric art. Museum/virtual museum study. Image-based discussion and short report. Readings with page numbers
Suggested Readings: Burkitt, M. C. The Old Stone Age: A Study of Palaeolithic Times. Cambridge University Press. Wakankar, V. S. Bhimbetka: The Prehistoric Paradise. Archaeological Survey of India. |