Modern Art in London: From Sublime to Ridiculous

This course examines canonical works of art from the late nineteenth century through to the present. The class analyses the ways in which the seeds of art as we know it today were sown at the end of the nineteenth century including emphasis on art produced in response to the First and Second World Wars. A diverse range of works on display in London such as painting, printmaking, mixed media, photography, sculpture, installation, film and video form part of the immersive experience in class and through field studies.

Core themes explored in the course investigate attitudes and ideas in Modern Art and the effect of historical events and sociological changes. Class discussions and activities evaluate the advances in technology on the art world; materials, styles and techniques, the value of art and the changing role of the artist to develop an eye and appreciation for similarities and differences.