Art History: British Art 1940-1960

About this course

The course examines the diversity of British art between 1940 and 1960, including neo-romanticism, kitchen-sink realism, new brutalism and the sculptors associated with the geometry of fear. Artists discussed include Graham Sutherland, John Piper, Frances Hodgkins, Frank Auerbach, Leon Kossoff, Lynn Chadwick and Elizabeth Frink. Teaching combines informal lectures, screen-based presentations and group discussion. Alongside key paintings and artists, the course considers how postwar social, political and economic conditions shaped British art, including the contributions of women and marginalised voices.

What you'll learn

• Identify key British artists and significant paintings from 1940 to 1960.
• Examine the influence of social, political and economic conditions on postwar British art.
• Discuss the contributions of women and marginalised voices during this period.
• Explore central issues and themes in British art between 1940 and 1960.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for complete beginners as well as learners from varied backgrounds and art practitioners. No prior knowledge of art and design is required. The informal format includes lectures and discussion, with learners encouraged to contribute to conversations about the material.

• Suitable for learners with no previous art history knowledge.
• Relevant to both general learners and practising artists.
• Includes discussion alongside lecture-based teaching.

Before you go

• Paper and a pen may be useful for making notes.
• Some college activities use Microsoft Office platforms and a dedicated Morley College email address.