History of Art

Assessment

YEAR 1: PAPER 1 SECTION A: Visual analysis: How to ‘read’ art and architecture using a specialist vocabulary The ability to analyse the formal characteristics of any work of art and architecture is a key advantage for any individual in a world dominated by visual images and messages. It is, therefore, a valuable life skill. Students will develop visual literacy across painting, sculpture and architecture from within the European tradition of art, from Classical Greece (500 BCE) to the present. SECTION B: Thematic study – Nature in art and architecture A source of inspiration, a symbol of belonging or as an ideal of perfection, the natural world has always played a vital part in shaping our art and architecture. This theme covers the ways in which the motifs, messages and materials of nature have been used across time and place. Thematic study – War in art and architecture An expression of triumph or loss ‒ our responses and attitudes to war are shaped by works that remember and either support or challenge the conflict. Over time and place, attitudes towards war have changed significantly and this theme covers the preparation, participation and responses to international and civil wars in works of 2D and 3D art and in architecture. HOW IT IS ASSESSED? Written exam: 3 hours Section A: 1 hour (3 Sections: 20-minute responses on 1) painting, 2) sculpture and 3) architecture) Section B: 1 hour (2 Sections: 12 marker and 25 marker) YEAR 2: PAPER 2 PERIOD STUDY Invention and illusion: The Renaissance in Italy (1420–1520) This option covers the work produced in the regions and cities of the three states of Venice (which can include Padua and Mantua), Florence (which can include Siena) and Rome. This option spans one of the most extraordinary concentrations of artistic achievement the world has ever seen. The ideas, values and iconic works of the Italian Renaissance continue to shape ideas of beauty, perfection and heritage today. Rebellion and Revival: The ‘Avant-Garde’ in Britain and France (1848-1899) This option offers students the opportunity to explore the works of the Impressionists and PostImpressionists as well as those of the Victorian, Pre-Raphaelite and Art Nouveau movements in Britain and France. As Europe responded to a time of industrial change, technological advances made the world feel faster, more exhilarating and also more disorientating. It was often the creative work of artists and architects that demonstrated the inspiration or challenges of this ‘progress’ to the world. HOW IT IS ASSESSED? Written exam: 3 hours (4 Sections: 5 marker x2, 15 marker and 30 marker)