Introduction to Art History Course

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 key periods in art history and their defining characteristics.
• Identify influential artists from each period and analyse their contributions.
• Understand the social, political, and cultural contexts that influenced art movements.
• Critically engage with artworks through informed observation and analysis.
• Trace the evolution of artistic techniques and themes over time.

Course content

What will be covered in this Art History Course?

Week 1

• Without Towns and Cities – the Origins of Art and First Nations Image Making
• Art and the Earliest Cities – The Fertile Crescent and the Indus Valley Civilisation
• The Art of Classical Greece – Applied mathematical harmony meets observed naturalism
• The Art of China and the Qin Dynasty
• The Greco-Buddhist art of Gandhara

Week 2

• Byzantine Art – the Roman Empire post classicism?
• The Umayyad Caliphate and the rise of Islamic art
• The Art of Europe in the Early and Late Middle Ages – from the Lindisfarne Gospels to the Cathedral City
• The Italian Renaissance artist - from workshop craftsman to aspiring gentleman
• Early-modern women artists
• Mesoamerica and the art of the Olmec, Mayans, Aztecs and Inkas.

Week 3

• The art of baroque Europe and the “end” of the Renaissance
• French Rococo hedonism
• Neoclassicism and the Enlightenment
• The Realist movement in art and “authenticity”
• French Impressionism
• From the French Avant-Garde to Formalist Abstraction
• From 1920s Dadaism to 1960s Neo Dadaism and the art world hegemony of “contemporary” art.

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.