A History of Art in 25 Objects

About this course

The course presents a chronological survey of art from pre-civilisation to the present day. It uses 25 selected objects, including buildings, artefacts and artworks, to represent significant periods and movements. Teaching takes the form of an illustrated lecture, examining each object alongside the ideas and historical knowledge that shaped its production. This contextual approach considers how understanding a period can deepen interpretation of the objects associated with it.

What you'll learn

• Identify major periods and movements in the history of art from pre-civilisation to the present
• Examine buildings, artefacts and artworks as examples of their historical periods
• Relate selected objects to the ideas and knowledge that informed their production
• Interpret artworks and artefacts through their wider historical context

Is this course right for you?

The course is labelled for all levels and is presented as an online lecture, making it suitable for learners approaching the survey from different levels of prior knowledge. Participation centres on listening to the lecture and considering the historical context of the selected objects.