The study of History of Art is never-ending and is a constant delight because it involves looking at, and thinking about, the splendid creations of the human imagination.
History of Art is taught at A Level over a period of two years during which we aim to give an understanding of the painting, sculpture and architecture of the Western world. We encourage students to develop their critical and analytical skills and learn how to set the works of art in the historical context in which they were created. All they require is intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm.
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The first year of study is a broad introduction and covers western art from classical Greece to modern times. Students are taught how to recognise different styles, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque for example, as well as how to critically analyse a work of art with sound judgement. Works of art are also considered thematically and these include the significance of patronage, methods and materials and the interpretation of subject matter.
The second part of the A Level investigates two periods of Art History from the fifteenth century to the present day. We will focus on some of the following: The Florentine Renaissance, The High Renaissance in Rome, Art of the French Revolution, The Impressionist and Post Impressionist Eras, Victorian Narrative Painting and Twentieth Century Movements such as Cubism, Futurism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism amongst other ‘isms’
The History of Art Department has the latest computer equipment with its own bank of thousands of images, which grows by the day. It is situated next to the Library, which we make full use of, and, in collaboration with the Librarian, Sally Bassington, we make sure it is well stocked with current publications, exhibition catalogues in particular, as well as relevant DVDs for the girls to borrow.
Like other subjects at this school, Art History A Level groups are small, usually about seven students in each which is a perfect number to stimulate debate and encourage the students to express their opinions. Many go on to study History of Art at University.
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Staff
Sarah Carr-Gomm MA, the Head of Department, has taught History of Art since leaving university. She founded the educational company Art History Abroad and she has published several books and articles on a wide variety of art historical subjects.