In Dragons: Art & Lore, from Asia to the Western World, a course taught by Becker School of Design & Technology Professor Melizza Santram-Chernov, students explore the historical and cultural representation of mythical beasts in visual arts and folklore.

They study the illustration of dragons and common writing elements of fantasy stories, examining ancient drawings and modern works like “Game of Thrones,” the HBO drama series based on the “A Song of Ice and Fire” novel series by George R. R. Martin.

When reptile specialist Matt Gabriel visited the class with several slithery and scaled creatures in tow, students observed the sometimes magical animals long depicted in games, art, and written works.

“I think bringing in the reference material for students to illustrate is important when students try to connect the dots from what they’re drawing to what ancient cultures saw.”

— Professor Melizza Santram-Chernov

Photos: Steven King, director of photography / university photographer