What is Art History?
Art History helps the student to develop an independent and critically informed understanding of the visual arts and of the wider cultural context in which they operate. Students are introduced to the key artists and forms of art in the Western tradition; rather than being given a chronological survey, they focus on the study of chosen topics and explore these in some depth.
Students are encouraged to develop a real appreciation of Art and are taught to refine their critical faculties in response to a variety of stimuli and to write in a coherent fashion about their subject. Full use is made of the excellent local museums and local architecture, together with visits to the major London galleries.
What other subjects go well with Art History?
Art History combines well with a number of other subjects, for example History, Philosophy and English, and is especially valuable for students of Art. A good general knowledge is a distinct advantage as links can be established with literature, sociology, philosophy, history, mythology and religion.
What will I gain from studying the subject?
Art History is the study of visual images: paintings, sculpture and architecture, in the wider cultural context in which they were created. The 'A' level course involves learning how to 'read' images - how to analyse and interpret images against a backdrop of the social conditions that created them. Art History is a subject for those who wish to develop an informed appreciation of the arts in response to a variety of stimuli. The study of Art History can lead to a range of careers related to the arts, including museum and gallery work, teaching, journalism, television, publishing, theatre, art therapy, advertising and design.
Do I have an aptitude for the subject?
You should have an interest in the past, and a willingness to consider carefully a number of possible interpretations of events. You should be willing to develop the skills of observation, and to learn the elements that make up a pictorial language. Finally, you should be aware that art history depends on stylistic evidence, rather than personal opinion, in order to gain an objective interpretation of the image.