History of Art

Course summary

The A Level History of Art course offers an exciting opportunity to study the global stories of art and architecture from 500BC to today, investigating historical and political contexts as well as materials, techniques and styles. This two-year course is about researching and exploring the visual arts, culture and ideas of the world. It is a new and inspiring course which, for the first time ever, allows us to explore the arts of Japan, China and Africa in addition to those of the European tradition. You will begin with a core course in visual literacy so that you have the skills to analyse any painting, sculpture or building. Then we will explore art and architecture in relation to two themes: Identities and War. Both are highly relevant in the turbulent world in which we live and you will explore the attitudes and solutions of cultures past and present. We will investigate the history, political context and artistic innovations of key works and artists, making this course relevant for anyone interested in the wider world around them. Regular visits to collections in the UK will give you the chance to investigate works first-hand, as well as building life-long friendships with your peers.