Study day: Berthe Morisot and the women of the Impressionist movement

About this course

The course examines Berthe Morisot’s career, training, exhibitions and contribution to Impressionism through selected works, considering her technique, style and subject matter. It also places her alongside artists including Mary Cassatt, Marie Bracquemond, Anna Ancher, Harriet Backer, Elizabeth Forbes, Cecilia Beaux and Jane Sutherland. Slide presentations and group discussion are used to explore why Impressionism appealed to women artists, the opportunities it offered, the barriers they encountered, and debates around gendered subjects and techniques.

What you'll learn

• Outline the main stages of Berthe Morisot’s career and her position within the Impressionist movement.
• Identify at least five key works by Berthe Morisot.
• Name at least ten other women Impressionist painters.
• Discuss whether Impressionist painting can be understood as gendered or feminine.
• Analyse how the cultural and social context influenced women’s success in Impressionism.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at all levels. Participants should be able to follow simple written and spoken instructions, demonstrations, handouts and health and safety information, and should be prepared to contribute to group discussion.

• Includes discussion of artists working in France and in several international contexts.
• Participation includes group discussion alongside presentation-based teaching.

Before you go

• A notebook may be useful for taking notes.
• Books from any provided reading list may be purchased separately.
• PowerPoint slides will not be shared.