Course Catalogue

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Until more recent times the history of women artists has been overshadowed by their male counterparts. With them now gaining the recognition they deserve, this ten-week course will further their recognition. The course will explore the rise of women artists from the early modern period in Europe to the 19th century. Paying special attention to Artemisia Gentileschi (1593-1653) and to Berthe Morisot (1841-1895) the course will introduce students to the lesser-known artists.

Block 1

2 hours per week for 10 weeks

Mondays, 10.00-12.00

None

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Essay (approximately 1500 words) from a choice of titles (75%); visual test in class: identification, comparison and discussion of 2 sets of 2 paintings, 25 minutes for each set, approximately 350 words each (25%). An alternative assessment can be arranged for students whose disabilities would prevent them performing satisfactorily in the visual test.

This course aims to:

■ Provide an introduction to the prominent women artists within European painting from the 15th to the 19th century.

■ Place these artists within the broader context of European art of their respective periods.

■ Introduce and analyse key examples of these artists' paintings.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Identify and evaluate the historical, stylistic and cultural components of the artists and artworks covered, and the key debates surrounding them

■ Critically analyse and interpret the major artworks covered in terms of its imagery, function, methods of production and stylistic and cultural components

■ Demonstrate personal study skills in art-historical research and the ability to pursue investigation of a work of art or a theme using library, museum and gallery resources

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.