ESH5005

London's Art Histories

Level 5 (15 credits)

This module is based around the rich visual resources of London. Through lectures and visits to monuments and national museums such as Westminster Abbey, the National Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, The British Museum and the Tate Galleries, as well as to local collections such as the Whitechapel Gallery and contemporary art galleries in the East End, we will explore the histories of art from the medieval period to the present day by focusing on a selected group of objects, images or buildings. This will allow you to develop skills of visual analysis and provide an understanding of the historical context in which the object or building in question was originally made. At the same time we will examine issues of how these objects are presented today, considering the questions of museology, curatorial practice, and the contemporary art market. Topics covered may vary according to exhibitions and temporary displays that are open to the public during the Semester.

Preparing for this Module and Approximate Costs

There will be no additional costs other than Tube fares to and from museums (all exhibitions we see will be free).

 
Why take
London's Art Histories
?

  • You'll visit some of London's most intriguing museums and galleries.
  • You'll learn to read the past and the present through critiquing the collection, curation and display of visual art in London.
  • You'll develop skills in writing about visual culture and museum studies.
Learning Context Lecture + Seminar
Semester One or Two
Assessment
  1. Written Assignment 1, 40%
  2. Written Assignment 2, 60%
Mode of reassessment Standard
Contact