Art history

Stories of Art: Shaping Art

Module code: V4041
Level 4
30 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework

This 11-week lecture-based module introduces you to the history of art, focusing on key topics, ideas, and works that form the foundation of the discipline. You'll also develop essential study skills for success as an art history undergraduate.

The module follows a chronological approach to help you situate works of art in relation to each other and the societies that produced them. Alongside this, you'll explore recurring issues and ideas across different periods, encouraging critical thinking about how history is narrated and whose perspectives shape these narratives.

By focusing on audiences and patronage as the overarching theme, the module examines works of art not only as the result of artists’ decisions but as objects shaped by specific historical and cultural circumstances. You’ll consider the roles of patrons and viewers within these networks and reflect on the value judgements involved in constructing art histories.

Module learning outcomes

• Understand the basic concept of art having multiple histories.
• Demonstrate knowledge of underlying principles of art history through evaluating key artistic moments and objects.
• Be able to interpret key art objects in terms of historical relations between makers, patrons and audiences.
• Demonstrate awareness of changing interpretations of works of art across different periods and places.