History of Art

Course summary

The study of History of Art provides a critical introduction to culture and a stimulating insight into the use of images in an increasingly visual world. We explore art and architecture in depth, understanding its past and present relationship to society, religion, politics, feminism, empire and the media. Students learn skills that are highly valued in the fast-growing creative industries as they undertake close visual analysis as well as manage and deploy evidence in constructing an argument. High-level communication skills, creative problem-solving and an independent questioning attitude are developed. Cultural awareness furthers empathy and insight, also giving students the basis for a lifelong enjoyment of art, architecture and sculpture. It is viewed by Russell Group universities as an enabling humanities subject equivalent to History and English.