History of Art is a richly stimulating A level subject that is directly relevant in today’s proliferation of visual culture. The course explores the major periods of art history from antiquity to modernity and aims to understand works in their unique context and from a global perspective.
Lessons are active and participatory, with a work of art or architecture often used a starting point for discussion. This kind of visual analysis is an important part of understanding both how to look at art but also how to formulate ideas and build an interpretation. Pupils develop their visual literacy whilst also gaining important insight into the historical context. Pupils are encouraged to think critically and creatively and to explore a range of sources. Finally, the course helps pupils to develop verbal and written communication and analytical skills.