Course description
What is the course about?
Explore the art and culture of the eighteenth century – the age of the Enlightenment, American Independence and the French Revolution. Featured artists include: Canaletto, Boucher, Watteau, David, Hogarth, Gainsborough, Lawrence and Reynolds. Includes a visit to the National Portrait Gallery.
What topics will we cover?
Each week will focus on a different aspect of eighteenth-century art and culture. Key artists, architects and designers will be introduced and their works placed in a cultural and social context. The course takes a chronological route, decade by decade, through the century but some classes will focus on crosscutting themes, for example the growth of rationality and reason as the defining intellectual traits of the age. The latter part of the course involves an in-depth study of the growth and influence of Romanticism.
By the end of this course you should be able to:
• Recognise different styles and types of eighteenth-century art and design
• Describe eighteenth-century art and design and express an informed personal response
• Understand key aspects of eighteenth-century history and culture
• Discuss eighteenth-century portraits will greater confidence
What level is the course?
The course is open to all. No prior knowledge of the subject is required.
How will I be taught?
Each week there will be a slide presentation by the tutor. There will also be some pairs and small group activities and opportunities for group discussion. The tutor will supply written notes for each class. We will spend one evening at the National Portrait Gallery where portraits of key eighteenth-century figures will be discussed.
Are there any other costs (e.g. certification, materials, equipment or books I need to buy)?
You may wish to buy some of the books on the reading list.
What feedback will I get?
All students complete a 'statement of learning' form at the beginning and end of the course to assess their achievement. The tutor will provide informal feedback during class discussion. 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.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Some of the other art history survey courses may interest you, for example: British Art: Holbein to Hirst, Styles in Art, Looking at Paintings, The Mirror of Nature: art and culture in the 17th century
