A history of art in 100 objects

About this course

The course examines art from roughly 3,000 BCE to 1900 CE through a global and chronological selection of objects, including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, works on paper and textiles. Sessions consider how art is made, used and interpreted, alongside themes such as materiality, spirituality, propaganda, museum display, colonialism and historiography. Teaching combines gallery-based lectures, group discussion and interactive activities. Short readings, video clips and written reflections outside class support discussion, but are not assessed.

What you'll learn

• Apply a range of methods used by art historians when examining art objects
• Explain how museum display and collecting practices can affect interpretations of art
• Identify visual features associated with selected periods and materials
• Interpret art objects in relation to their cultural, historical and political contexts

Is this course right for you?

Designed for learners at all levels, including those being introduced to art-historical approaches. Participation includes group discussion and interactive activities, with learners expected to follow written and verbal guidance. Offsite study involves walking between locations and standing while viewing works.

• Engages with critical material on decolonisation, colonialism and the ownership of historic artefacts
• Includes short preparatory reading, video viewing and reflection between sessions

Before you go

• Sessions take place offsite during public access hours. Learners may need to walk between locations and stand for periods of time; seating cannot be guaranteed.
• Access conditions vary between buildings. A portable stool may be brought, and access arrangements can be discussed in advance where required.
• A notebook is optional. A portable gallery stool, books from any reading list and refreshments are also optional.
• Handouts are provided and made available digitally through Google Classroom.
• Gallery and museum entry is free.