What is the course about?
We will study the development of modern art in England in the late 19th and early 20th Century. We will consider how ‘modernism’ impacted the work of British artists, critics, and theorists and how they were influenced by avant-garde theories from France, Germany, Italy and Russia. We will consider whether the art produced reflects Britain at the turn of the 20th century and how key British artists of this period created a new tradition of ‘British’ art by injecting a much-needed dose of fresh ideas from the continent.
What will we cover?
• The legacy of the 19th Century: British Academic art and the ‘problem’ of ‘bourgeois taste’
• The New English Art Club and the influence of late 19th Century French Art
• The Camden Town Group; Roger Fry and Post- Impressionism; The Bloomsbury Group
• The Art of the Machine; The impact of the First World War.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Be aware of key works of art and artists by artists working in late 19th early 20th century Britain
• Discuss the influence of the continental ‘avant garde’ on British painting in the early 20th Century
• Be able to discuss artworks with more confidence.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for all levels.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught with short lectures, slide shows and discussions.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You might wish to bring a notebook. You might wish to buy some of the books on any reading list given out in class.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You might also be interested in:
VB225 - Introduction to Tate Britain.
