Women in art: 1900-1960

About this course

This course surveys European and American women artists working between 1900 and 1960, including figures associated with Expressionism, Dadaism, Surrealism, Orphism, Vorticism, Rayonism and Constructivism, as well as artists working independently of named movements. It considers how cultural and social conditions shaped their practices, identities and reputations within a male-dominated art world. Teaching uses slide presentations and group discussions. Participants will examine selected works across a range of media, identify their formal qualities and discuss their significance in relation to Modernism and its wider contexts.

What you'll learn

• Identify women artists from the period and relate them to relevant avant-garde movements
• Recognise significant works and explain their importance
• Discuss how cultural and social issues influenced artists’ work and reputations
• Analyse the formal qualities of selected artworks

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for learners at all levels. Participation involves looking closely at artworks, joining group discussions and following slide-based teaching. Learners should be able to follow simple written and spoken instructions, demonstrations, handouts and health and safety information, and be willing to access course documents through Google Classroom.

• Includes group discussion rather than solely individual study
• Requires access to Google Classroom for supplementary materials
• Written and verbal course information is delivered alongside slide presentations

Before you go

• Handouts and supplementary materials are provided digitally through Google Classroom rather than in printed form.
• A notebook may be useful for taking notes.
• Books from any course reading list may be purchased if desired.