This study has examined the art history education at art college in terms of
integrating theories and production. The researcher has implemented ‘art history
research projects’ in ‘Theories of Modern Art I & II’ Courses for art majored students
during four semesters from 2011 through 2014 at a university in Seoul, Korea. The
research has begun with the following questions: Can art college students present their
knowledge of art movements and artists using their familiar mode of expression such
as visual art forms? To answer to the question, the researcher have developed a series
of Art History Research Projects which integrate theories and productions, and had her
art college students participate in them. The art college students have researched
certain art isms and movements with a focus of specific artists, and have
collaboratively produced their own art works reflecting what they have learned from
the art history courses. The open-ended questionnaire collected from art college
students, students’ project reports, and their collaborative artworks were analyzed.
This project has following educational outcomes: Firstly, the project has
strengthened students’ interest in art history courses and given new experiences of
them. Secondly, the project has provided insight of the possibilities of integrating
theories and production in art history courses. Thirdly, the project enable students
to learn deeper knowledge of art historical theories through the integration.
Fourthly, the project has encouraged communications among art college students
and understanding of characteristics of different majors. The outcomes of the
research gives implications in developing art history courses in art colleges in
terms of maintaining both student interests and deeper learning.