Course - Medieval and Renaissance art: an introduction
ObjectivesYou will begin by looking at the production and use of images in the medieval period and its distinguishing features, followed by a contrasting look at Renaissance art.
Course descriptionWhat is the course about?
This course will begin by looking at the production and use of images in the medieval period, contrasting the work’s distinguishing features, and their style and influence on the period that would follow – The Renaissance.
What topics will we cover?
Religion dominated the society and culture of the medieval period in Europe and this in turn dominated the production of objects we now call works of art. However, this dominance would soon be rivalled by an interest in the classical pagan past and an interest in naturalism in the depiction of images that would become known as the Renaissance. These events would set in motion a different view of man’s place in the world. These gradual and eventual changes brought on by social and economic influences as much as the aforementioned reasons will be traced by looking at the painting, sculpture and architecture of the period. And finally I will examine key works that reflect these changes and consider the role of the artist and the different evolving styles.
By the end of this course you should be able to:
• Describe the distinctive features of these two periods
• Compare and contrast different styles of painting
• Discuss how the role of the artist changed
What level is the course?
The course is open to all. No prior knowledge of the subject is required.
How will I be taught?
Through illustrated talks and lectures. Discussion. Question and answer sessions. A guided visit to study the original works of art at the National Gallery may be made if appropriate.
The first part of each session will be an illustrated lecture, followed by a discussion of the issues raised and it will conclude with a visual exercise. Students will be encouraged to keep a weekly course journal and may choose to give a presentation or submit a short written piece.
Are there any other costs (e.g. certification, materials, equipment or books I need to buy)?
No, but to take the subject further looking at the following might be appropriate:
Bibliography:
Sekules, Veronica, Medieval Art, (Oxford, 2001)
Conant, Kenneth John, Carolingian and Romanesque Architecture: 800-1200 (Penguin, 1974)
Paoletti & Radke, Art in Renaissance Italy (Prentice Hall, 2005)
Huizinga, Johan H., The Waning of the Middle Ages (Dover, 2005)
Welch, Evelyn S., Art in Renaissance Italy, 1350-1500 (Oxford, 1997)
What feedback will I get?
Your tutor will give you feedback both individually and through group discussion.
Your progress will be regularly assessed and monitored by your tutor taking into account class work and homework where appropriate. The tutor will record your progress and provide informal, regular feedback throughout the course. At the end of your study programme you will be asked to self-assess your own progress and achievement against the course objectives above. The tutor will endorse your assessment which will be formally recorded on a standard form (the Statement of Learning). You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.
Will I have a chance to give my views on the course?
Yes, please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.