Aesthetic Realism Foundation

How to Study

The Visual Arts & the Opposites

Taught by Marcia Rackow

Looking at the art of the world in museums and galleries here and abroad — from the tomb sculptures of ancient China to the latest work in Chelsea — we study how beauty in all art is a oneness of opposites. The classes are based on Eli Siegel’s lectures and essays, including “Art as Flexibility,” “Art as Energy,” “The Drama of Hardness and Softness in Painting.” Once each semester there is a joint Art and Anthropology class.

Alternate Sundays, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Eastern Time (USA)

Winter 2026 classes via video conference are now in session.

WINTER 2026

  • Jan 25   CLASS CANCELLED: Rescheduled for April 26
  • Feb 8   Fra Angelico – Palazzo Strozzi
  • Feb 22   Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets – Barnes Foundation
  • Mar 8   “We Can Begin Again,” Say the Vegetation Gods! *
  • Mar 22   Rauschenberg at 100 – Guggenheim Museum
  • Apr 5   Works of Art Discussed by Students
  • Apr 19   Raphael: Sublime Poetry – Metropolitan Museum
  • April 25   [SATURDAY] Monet and Venice – Brooklyn Museum

*Joint class with Anthropology Is About You & Everyone taught by Dr. Arnold Perey

Want to audit a class?

  • Contact the registrar at 212.777.5055, Mon–Fri, 2–6 PM (ET) or submit this brief form. Be sure to make your request at least 2 days before the class.
  • Once your request has been approved, you will receive an email with a link to pay for the class.

Fees

  • Semester (7 classes): $60
  • Audit (per class): $12
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