Course summary

Art has a profound impact on how we understand our world. It clarifies events and can compel complex emotions. This course offers a critical exploration of this exciting and influential field. You’ll examine the production and reception of art across time and cultures, and analyse why it was made, when, where, by whom and for whom – discovering the social, cultural, economic and political contexts in which they were produced and consumed. You'll also explore how feminism, philosophy, race, religion (and more) intersect with art – and how art history relates to other fields such as business, history and international relations. Exploring central London’s museums, galleries and auction houses, you'll be introduced to art in all its diverse forms. By examining pieces from across the world, you’ll learn how material culture can inform – and even contradict – global histories. You'll also have the chance to network with industry professionals (curators, artists, advisors), join workshops and curate your own exhibition in Regent's Knapp Gallery. Recently, students have:

• Joined workshops with Philippa Abrahams – a BBC expert in artists' materials

• Visited Claridge's ArtSpace, where art can be bought in cryptocurrency

• Examined works first hand at the British Museum

• Visited Frieze Masters and Frieze London events

• Enjoyed an immersive experience at Superblue London

• Produced their own photograms at Darkroom London