Course description

This course will equip you with the critical tools needed to approach the themes, ideas, practices and works of modern art and contemporary art. The course moves chronologically through the art made from the French Revolution to 2000, with a main focus on 20th century art. Important art movements, ideas, artists and artworks will be introduced and explored in our classes, paying attention to the critical ways in which the canon of art history has been transformed during the past decades.

In the week-long format, your learning will be supported by study trips to the Tate Modern and seminars at the college.

In the 10-week format, classes at the college will alternate with visits to the National Gallery, Tate Modern and in some occasions other galleries. (The first class of the course will take place at the National Gallery, and in the subsequent weeks we will visit Tate Modern on every occasion there is a late opening. We will also visit one temporary exhibition during the course.)

Course outcomes

By the end of this course, students will:

• Identify key periods, movements and ideas in modern art.
• Recognize different approaches to historicising modern art.
• Understand the modern art history canon, its criticisms and limitations.
• Place modern artworks in relationship with the cultural production of their time.
• Have a knowledge of important writings on modern art.
• Make a formal analysis of modern artworks.
• Evaluate the relationship between an artwork, its medium and the discourses around modern art.
• Develop their own critical take on modern artworks.

Who should take this course?

Anyone with an interest in 20th century art. Although designed to follow on from the Introduction to Art History that runs at the National Gallery, it is also suitable for those who have not studied art history previously.

Entry requirements: None

Level: Beginners

Clear, easy to understand lessons:

• Our tutors will explain things in easy to understand, accessible English. If they need to use any special terminology, they will make sure they explain what they mean.
• New methods will be shown to students through live demonstrations, in a way that’s crystal clear and easy to understand.

Experience life on campus:

• Study at Central Saint Martins, Granary Square a world-famous art and design college
• Network and share ideas with students from across the globe
• Access the technology and materials relevant to your discipline
• Ask questions of your tutor in real time
• Receive feedback and critique on your assignments
• Experience the many sights of London on your down time

A certificate of completion and a digital badge:

• You've put the work in so we want to make sure you have something to show for it!
• As long as you attend a minimum of 80% of your classes, we will provide you with a certificate of attendance.
• We always recommend you attend all of the classes so that you get the most out of the experience!
• Certificates and digital badges are great to compliment your cv.