Introduction to Modern Art History Online Short Course

Course overview

The first half of the 20th Century was a time of radical artistic innovation and turbulent upheaval of ideas, the effects of which we still feel today. Whilst fascinating, the vastness of the era and the complexity of its art are understandably intimidating to those just starting in the field. This modern art history online course aims to give you a working foundation from which you can really begin to get to grips with the intricate history of modern art.

Through movements such as Cubism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism and many more, you will learn to identify the key characteristics of significant modern movements alongside the analysis of their historical significance. Across four weeks you will learn about the downfall of academic art, the rise of abstraction, and the contradictory, anti-modern impulses of opposing movements. A critical understanding of modernity and modernism is emphasised throughout the course and taught alongside all our examples.

You will develop skills in art historical analysis through weekly assignments which receive individual feedback at the end of the course. Resources for extended research are provided via the online Workflow interface, where the discussion continues outside of weekly lectures.

Who this course is for

If you are interested in art and enjoy visiting galleries and would like to deepen your knowledge of modern art, then this course is for you. You will develop and shape your understanding and opinions, which could give you a greater appreciation for art that you can apply to your own artwork or to a degree application.