Art history courses
Introduction to Art history
Humans have always told stories through art. In studying art history, you can learn more about humanity in the most vivid and visceral of ways. Historical context can reveal so much about an artwork's appearance, and the meaning behind it.
If you're captivated by art, why not consider a career as a curator, art advisor, critic, collection manager, or educator? A course in art history will give you essential knowledge and tools, in preparation for an inspiring role in the arts industry.
Discover art history courses
Online art history degrees
Undergraduate
Undergraduate
Online art history subjects and short courses
Undergraduate
Undergraduate
Undergraduate
Art history study FAQs
Study an art history course
Art history degrees typically begin with the basics, such as understanding art and design principles, processes, and discipline areas. A key skill you'll explore early on is how to critically analyse art.
Once the basics have been laid down, you'll examine such areas as:
- Art history introduction – Gain a broad understanding of how historical and cultural context manifest in an artwork's aesthetic.
- Key artistic periods – Explore works of specific periods and movements, such as renaissance, baroque, rococo, art nouveau, and modernism.
- Major artistic movements – Understand not only the visual characteristics of movements such as cubism and surrealism, but the political and social motivations behind them.
- Aboriginal art history – Examine the works of indigenous Australian artists.
Create an inspired career
A deep knowledge and appreciation of the arts, particularly in a historical sense, is desirable when it comes to finding work in the arts industry. Common careers for arts history graduates include:
- Art curator - Plan exhibitions and manage acquisition of artworks.
- Marketing and PR - Promote the events of an arts organisation.
- Art conservation and restoration - Maintain and repair artworks susceptible to damage.
- Art appraisal - Determine the value of an artwork for sale.
- Art educator - Pass on knowledge to students and the general public.
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