Curriculum Leader: Ms A Jones
A Level Teacher: Mrs L Milner
Examining Board: CEA
Coursework Content: NONE
Form of Examination: 1st year: 2 x 1hour 30 mins written papers
2nd year: 2 x 2 hour written papers.
Should I choose this subject?
If you enjoy looking at works of art in their original settings and in museums and galleries, or if you are curious about the value and status of art in society you will find this subejct stimulating and very rewarding.
What is it about?
History of Art is the study of works of art and their specific meanings within the cultures in which they are created. It is largely about training the eye to think in its own way, along with the mind, and is one of the number of disciplines which attempt to understand the creative impulse. It is often only through an examination of the art of a culture that we gain a wider appreciation of the values, resources and aspirations of that culture. Since art is created within the wider framework of economics, politics, philosophy, religion, science, sociology and technology, we consider how these areas directly influence the art of the time.
How will it be studied?
At the end AS, students will have acquired a basic knowledge of the history of painting, architecture and sculpture in Europe from c. 600 BC to c. mid-20th century. The emphasis will be on styles, materials, techniques, the purpose of art and the role of the artist in society. Particular emphasis will be placed on the periods from 500 BC to 1520 and 1850 to 1950.
At A2, four specific areas are studied – High Renaissance Painting and Sculpture, High Renaissance Architecture, Twentieth Century Painting including Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art, and Three-dimensional Craft and Design 1945–1970.
The course is structured around classroom discussions, notes, slides and visits to galleries in and around London, and abroad when appropriate.
How will history of art be useful in the future?
Career options include museum and gallery work, teaching, conservation, archaeology and publishing.