History of Art

What's History of Art A level about?

History of Art A level offers a wide-ranging introduction to western art. If you choose to study the A level, you'll find yourself exploring themes such as art's role in society and patronage – as well as discussing materials, techniques and processes.

You'll cover a wide range of historical eras: from classical Greece to 20th century Pop Art; from Renaissance and Baroque art to Impressionism and Post-Impressionism in the 19th century.

What does the course consist of?

The AS course introduces a critical vocabulary for analysing and interpreting art and architecture – equipping you with the tools to construct your own opinions and arguments.

The A2 course then offers the opportunity to investigate more specific periods of western art in greater depth.

Topic choices include the Renaissance, the Baroque, 19th century European art and architecture, early Modernism in the C20th and Contemporary art and architecture in Europe and the USA.

The course as we teach it has a strong observational component, so you'll look at the (plentiful) art and architecture in Oxford – as well as regularly visiting London museums and galleries. Your studies may even take you as far afield as Paris, Florence or Rome. You'll also be encouraged to visit museums and galleries in your own time in order to look at art at first hand.

Both AS and A2 exams are essay based, and the subject involves a significant amount of research. You should be prepared to read widely around your chosen topics.

Whom does the subject suit?

History of Art would clearly suit students who are interested in art, history and visual culture.

As an A level, it complements subjects such as English, Classical Civilization, Religious Studies, Modern Languages, Sociology, Communication Studies, Film Studies and Psychology – to name a few!

Who will teach me?

History of Art is currently taught by Nick Reeves and Margaret Craig.

What might the subject lead onto?

d'Overbroeck's History of Art students regularly go on to study History of Art at university. In the last few years our students have been offered places on the degree courses at Cambridge, the Courtauld Institute, UCL, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester and Sussex universities.