History of Art and Design-West Bridgford Library-Adult Learning

About this course

About this course

This course begins with the premise that art is for everyone and that an understanding of art enriches our connection to the world around us. It will explore the basic principles of art history and develop an understanding of how art shapes and reflects the values of the society in which it was made. 

 It is suitable for anyone who is curious to learn more about art and design from different cultures and historical periods and develop skills in visual analysis, a deeper understanding of the relationship between art and society and enjoyment and appreciation of art and design within our local community and beyond. 

What will be covered on the course?  

• An overview and introduction into key movements and periods in art history 
• An introduction into key concepts in art history and design theory 
• Development of skills in visual analysis of painting, sculpture and architecture  
• An appreciation of art and design from different historical periods and cultures 
• The link between art, society and cultural values 
• An exploration of art and design in our local area 

 What will learners achieve by the end of the course? 

By the end of the course learners will have a greater understanding of the cultural and historical significance of art and will be able to visually analyze, discuss and write about art and design from an informed perspective. They will choose a piece of art or architecture to research and present their findings to the group. 

What skills or knowledge do learners already need to have to attend the course? 

There is no prior knowledge required for this course.  

 What resources/course materials do learners need to bring for the course?  

• A pen and notepad 

Suggested Reading for the course – 

The Story of Art by E.H. Gombrich is a really good introduction to Art History but it is quite hefty! 

Ways of Seeing by John Berger is a short book containing seven essays and is a very powerful introduction into the relationship between art and society. 

Nottinghamshire by Nikolaus Pevsner is an informative guide to the architecture of Nottinghamshire. 

It would also be useful to visit our local galleries such as Djanogly Gallery at Lakeside and Nottingham Contemporary – both offer free admission. 

Booking your place and fee information

If you are in receipt of certain benefits you will be offered the course for free, however if you have a financial barrier which may prevent you from enrolling on the course  please visit our webpage for further information  https://www.inspireculture.org.uk/skills-learning/funding-your-courses/

 To secure your place on the course BOTH the following must be done:

• Complete the EVENTBRITE BOOKING.
• Complete our INSPIRE ONLINE ENROLMENT FORM for each person attending the course.

You should be redirected to the Inspire Online Enrolment Form after completing the Eventbrite booking.  If you are not redirected, please use the link supplied in the Eventbrite booking confirmation email.

To book and enrol on one of our courses, you must have been living in England and have been resident in the UK for the past 3 years.

Some exceptions may apply if you are living in England with evidence of the right to remain and are from an EEU/EEAU country (completion of a questionnaire will be required).

As we no longer receive funding for our ESFA-funded courses for learners living in the devolved areas listed below, full cost fees would apply to these courses if you live in these areas:

• Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield 
• Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
• Greater London
• Greater Manchester
• Liverpool City Region
• Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside and Northumberland
• Tees Valley
• West of England
• West Midlands
• West Yorkshire