Approaches to the History of Art
This module provides a thorough introduction to key themes and concepts in the history of art, drawing widely on examples of art from the fifteenth to the twentieth centuries.
The first part examines basic aspects of the historical and social context of artworks, such as: the role of patronage, the hierarchy of artistic genres, symbolism and iconology, the changing nature of the artistic profession, varying ideas of art.
The second part considers debates and concepts used in the contemporary interpretation of artworks. These include, for example: the idea of style, the role of gender, the social history of art, biography as an art historical method, reproductions and their impact, art and ethnicity.
During the module students will consider how the topics discussed relate to specific examples and cases in art history, developing proficiency in visual analysis and discrimination, as well as historical and interpretative understanding. The module also contains a comprehensive programme of study skills sessions that provide advice and guidance on academic research practice, good practice in oral seminar presentations and essay writing.
Object and Medium
This module is intended to provide you with detailed knowledge of the materials and techniques used for paintings (in particular egg tempera and oil). It will also consider the various types and uses of paintings, the function of drawings in the creative process and the making of sculpture. During the second term, the course is aimed at providing detailed knowledge of the materials and techniques of prints and other visual media. It will focus throughout on European art c.1400-2000 but will also look at art from other cultures and periods and consider the various functions of art objects. The module will also provide some insight into architectural design by looking in particular at some of the public buildings of the city of Birmingham.
Having completed the course, you will be able to appreciate the many different techniques of works of art in museums and galleries. You will also be able to recognise many of the materials used in painting, drawing sculpture, printmaking and other arts, by inspecting works of art of many different periods in the original. You will understand how different materials allow the creation of different effects and how the form of a work of art can relate to its function. In addition, you will be able to understand some of the criteria of building design, and appreciate the various approaches to displaying works of art that are found in different galleries.
Ideas of the Renaissance
Art historians frequently rely on terms denoting historical periods (such as ‘the Renaissance’ or ‘Enlightenment’) or styles (e.g. ‘Classicism,’ ‘Realism’) as a way of interpreting the history of artistic practices. Some terms are employed to describe both a period and a style (such as ‘Gothic,’ or ‘Baroque’). These concepts have proven to be hugely influential in shaping the understanding of art, and a critical understanding of how they are used is a vital part of art historical knowledge.
This module considers the concept of the Renaissance. Examining a range of works of art as well as textual sources, it explores some of the defining practices of the Renaissance, such as: the re-definition of past history, the idea of ‘medieval’ versus ‘Renaissance’, artistic practice and the rise of the artist, gender and the Renaissance, and hierarchies of art forms. As an exploration of the Renaissance as an art historical concept, the module also considers more recent debates within art history over the meaning and use of the term.
Concepts of Modernism in the History of Art
Art historians frequently rely on terms denoting historical periods (such as ‘the Renaissance’ or ‘Enlightenment’) or styles (e.g. ‘Classicism,’ ‘Realism’) as a way of interpreting the history of artistic practices. Some terms are employed to describe both a period and a style (such as ‘Gothic,’ or ‘Baroque’). These concepts have proven to be hugely influential in shaping the understanding of art, and a critical understanding of how they are used is a vital part of art historical knowledge.
This module considers the concept of Modernism. Examining a range of works of art as well as textual sources, it explores some of the defining practices of Modernism, such as: the Avant-Garde; ‘Primitivism’; the role of feminism and photography in modern art. As an exploration of Modernism as an art historical concept, the module also considers more recent debates within art history over the meaning and use of the term.
The Real Realism?
This module considers the concept of Realism. Examining a range of works of art as well as textual sources, it explores some of the defining practices of Realism, such as visual objectivity; everyday subject-matter; and political radicalism. We will analyse several art-historical moments associated with Realism (including French Nineteenth-Century Realism, Soviet Socialist Realism, Kitchen Sink Realism and New Realist Photography) whilst critically engaging with the concept of authenticity that underpins Realism. As an exploration of Realism as an art historical concept, the module also considers more recent debates within art history over the meaning and use of the term.
Module outside the main discipline (MOMD)
An MOMD is a module in a subject which is not normally a part of the student's main degree programme but which may be taken for additional credit to enhance their study. Schools and Departments across the University open up modules to students from other areas in a wide range of subjects and disciplines.