Ways into art history: understanding painting

About this course

The course examines how paintings are constructed, focusing on composition, pictorial space, perspective, colour, light and tone, shape, form, line, texture, pattern and movement. It also considers how different paints and media affect the final appearance of an artwork, alongside relevant historical factors rather than a survey of art movements or symbolism. Teaching combines lectures, slide presentations, practical analysis activities and group discussion. Learners will study selected artworks and take part in a museum visit during the course.

What you'll learn

• Analyse artworks using formal elements such as composition, colour, tone, line and pictorial space
• Describe how selected artworks were made
• Identify the materials, techniques and processes used in artworks
• Explain how artistic media and methods affect the appearance of a finished painting
• Analyse how artists create emphasis, balance, disharmony, depth and movement

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at all levels, including those developing their understanding of how paintings are made. Participation includes following written and verbal guidance, joining group discussions and using digital course materials through Google Classroom.

• Includes group discussion as well as individual artwork analysis
• Requires willingness to use Google Classroom for course documents
• Includes a museum visit with some walking between exhibits and periods of standing

Before you go

• Bring a 30cm ruler and something to write with.
• A notebook and books from any suggested reading list may be purchased if wanted.
• Course handouts and documents are shared digitally through Google Classroom.
• The museum visit may require walking between exhibits and standing for some time. Learners who may need adjustments should discuss access requirements with the provider before the course begins.