Ways into art history: a study day

Enjoy an introductory sample of Art History and develop some basic skills in formal and content analysis, material studies, and discussion of determinative factors such as patronage and politics.

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  • Start Date: 07 Nov 2026
    End Date: 07 Nov 2026
    Sat (Daytime): 11:00 - 17:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 1 session
    Course Code: VB214
    Tutors:  Rachel Sanders
    Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £63.00 Concession £51.00
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In stock
SKU
247994
Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £63.00 Concession £51.00

What is the course about?

This course is an introduction to History of Art as an academic discipline. We will explore a number of approaches to the study of art, from basic interests such as style, materials and genres, to more complex issues, such as context and historiography. We will examine a range of 2D & 3D artworks across a number of time periods, from the Renaissance to the modern.

What will we cover?

· Style, subject & material analysis

· Contexts - social, political, cultural, artistic.

· Introduction to some basic art history methodology.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

· Analyse and discuss the style and subject matter of a variety of 2D and 3D artworks

· Evaluate artworks as products of a range of contextual influences

· Participate in group discussions about art 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. You 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 lecture, slide presentations, activities and group discussions. Handouts will be provided by your tutor to support your learning on the course.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You might wish to purchase a notebook for taking notes. You might wish to buy some of the books on any reading list provided.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Modern painting: the 19th century from Goya to Gauguin

Modern painting: the 20th century from Matisse to Ofili

Rachel Sanders

Dr Rachel Sanders received her MA and PhD in History of Art from University College, London. She has taught at a number of institutions and currently lectures on the history of art and design at City Lit and Oxford Brookes University. Her research interest is early twentieth-century American political paintings and cartoons. She has published a number of articles on her research specialism and is currently writing a book on New Masses magazine.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.