Art History: An Introduction

Learn art theory and history with our Art Courses in Sydney! 

Studying art history isn't just about brushstrokes and colour theory—it's a journey that enriches our understanding of different cultures and societies throughout time. This exploration helps us appreciate diversity and the various ways people express themselves. 

By examining art from the past, we improve our critical thinking skills and learn to analyse complex visuals. Plus, we're inspired by the creativity and innovation of artists from different eras.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this History Course, you should be able to:

• Recognise the major movements in art history and their defining characteristics
• Identify some of the influential artists from each period and appreciate their work and ideas and the art movement they were a part of. Some of the art movements we will discuss include: Ancient civilizations, including First Nations and Ancient Egyptian art, The Renaissance, The Baroque, The Romantics, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Fauvism, Australian Art, Art of WW1 and WW2, and Modern Art.
• Some of the artists we will discuss include Caravaggio, Turner, Waterhouse, Margaret Olley, Banksy and Sister Wendy
• Understand the societies that influenced art movements.
• Discuss literature and films inspired by some famous art works such as the “Girl with the Pearl Earring” by Vermeer and the Australian author, Peter Robb’s book, ‘M’ as well as film including “Picnic at Hanging Rock”.

Course content

What will be covered in this Art History Course?

Week 1 Old and New Ideas about Harmony and Nature: First Nations and Ancient Egyptian and Ancient Greek art. Discussion about mythology and spirituality and symbolism in art through history, comparing with today’s art.

Week 2 Byzantine Art and the World in Colour: A journey through mosaics and colour through Italy and Europe, including Sicily and Ravenna. Discussion about parallel art movements in the Islamic world. Also, what art was being created at this time in the Pacific and Asia?

Week 3  The Renaissance and the Baroque eras in Europe. Stories about the fascinating artist, ‘M’ in Peter Robb’s book about Caravaggio as well as the science and chemicals used for pigments and colour. 

Week 4 ‘Father’ Turner, Impressionism and Post Impressionism. The Victorian Era also saw the development of the camera. Learn about how technology and Impressionism developed in this fascinating era.

Week 5 Art of Beauty, Art of War. Fauvism and Matisse and ‘decadent art’. A discussion about censorship and ‘depraved art’ over the centuries, versus beauty in art. Explore and understand art during war WW1 and WW2 and propaganda. 

Week 6 Modern Art: Sister Wendy and Banksy, Margaret Olley and more! Where is modern art going? A discussion of the film industry in Australia’s rich 1980s and how it influenced how we see, including Peter Weir’s “Picnic at Hanging Rock”.

Intended audience

Who is this Introduction to Art History Course for?

This series is perfect for anyone with a passion for art, from complete beginners to those with intermediate knowledge who wish to broaden their understanding of art history.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon Street & Victoria Road)

Course materials

What to bring to class

• A notebook and pen for notes and observations.
• A willingness to explore and discuss art across the ages.