What is art history?
- Course Code: VB174
- Dates: 17/09/24 - 17/09/24
- Time: 13:30 - 15:00
- Taught: Tue, Daytime
- Duration: 1 session
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Sarah Jaffray
Course Code: VB174
Duration: 1 session
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What is the course about?
This short course is designed as introduction to the some of the practices art historians use to develop art’s social context and its cultural impact. We start by defining what art history is and how it is useful for anyone interested in art and culture. We then sample art historical methods by interpreting artworks from the ancient to the contemporary.
You’ll be invited to participate in discussion on the artworks shared and will be welcome to ask questions about the general study of art history.
What will we cover?
• Defining art history and some of its cultural purposes
• Methods of art historical practice, including slow-looking, visual analysis and social context
• How art historians shape what we know about art.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Understand of the purpose and practice of art history
• Have the ability to look more closely at a work of art
• Describe the difference between art appreciation and art history.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for all levels. It is directed at those new to art history, but those with art history experience may also find the course useful.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught with lecture, slide presentations and class discussion.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You might wish to purchase a notebook for taking notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You might also be interested in:
Introduction to art history: what art historians do
An introduction to art history: form and materials
Ways into art history.
Sarah Jaffray holds a BA and MA in Art History with an emphasis in 19th/20th century France and a minor in the Italian Renaissance. She holds a second MA in Cultural Theory from Goldsmiths, University of London. Sarah was a lecturer for several colleges and universities in the Los Angeles area before relocating to London in 2012. She has worked in curatorial roles at the British Museum and Wellcome Collection. In addition to her current teaching at City Lit, Sarah is a lecturer at the University of Arts London and the Tutor Coordinator for City Lit's Art History programme. Her art historical practice focuses on experimental narratives, artistic process, art pedagogy, politics and philosophy. Sarah's current research is focused on translation and empathy.
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.
