History of Art

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.

The subject is taught over a period of two years, during which we aim to give an understanding of the painting, sculpture and architecture of the Western world and beyond. We encourage students to develop their critical and analytical skills, and learn how to situate artworks in the contexts in which they were created. No previous knowledge is required to take this subject; the student needs only intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm.

This A Level course offers an invaluable opportunity to study some of the greatest works of world art and architecture and thus to acquire a broad knowledge of different civilisations, from which a life-long love of the subject often springs. There are three units. The first gives students a visual literacy through the ability to analyse the formal characteristics of Western artworks and buildings – a vital skill in today’s image-saturated world.

In the second unit we explore two of the following three themes: Identities, Nature and War. We look at how artists across time and place have represented divine beings, individuals, groups and nations; how the motifs, messages and materials of the natural world have been used by practitioners in Europe and beyond; as well as the ways in which past and present artists have responded to war and reflected our changing attitudes towards conflict.

The third module is an in-depth exploration of two historical periods. ‘Invention and Illusion’ looks at the Renaissance in Italy between 1420 and 1520, while ‘Pop Life’ is a study of British and American contemporary art from 1960 to the present. We consider in greater detail the lives and careers of individual artists, as well as delving deeper into social, political and technological contexts: from the rediscovery of linear perspective in 15th century Florence, to the civil rights movement and rise of second-wave feminism in 1960s America.

As with other A Level subjects at Francis Holland, History of Art groups are small, typically comprising about seven students (with a maximum of twelve). The small size of the classes is an important factor in stimulating debate and encouraging all students to express their opinions.

Beyond The Classroom

Francis Holland School is happily situated near many of the splendid museums in London: the National Gallery, Victorian and Albert Museum, Tate Britain to name but three. Throughout the course we make numerous visits to permanent collections such as these, as well as to the ever changing exhibitions across London. Studying works of art at first hand is a vital part of this subject.

We run an informal Art History Film club. We watch films directly related to the area of study, such as ‘Gladiator’ when we are studying Roman art and architecture or ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ when we are studying Dutch 17th century art. It is held in the Art History room where there is a big screen and a good sound system.

Once a year we visit cities famous for their monuments and collections of art. The most popular destinations are Florence, Rome and Paris. The purpose of these trips is primarily to see the artistic highlights which these cities have to offer but they are also to demonstrate how, with a love for this subject, there is always something of interest to do or see just a few steps away.

Next Steps

Many of our students gain a real love for the subject through the interactive nature of our lessons and the opportunity to see and reflect on art at first hand at home and abroad. Many students go on to study History of Art at University, including at post-graduate level.

Artwork of the Week

Every week, the History of Art subject representatives select an Artwork of the Week to inspire us and teach us about world cultures, and to encourage us to visit more frequently the amazing museums and galleries that we have on our doorstep here in London.