HOA473 London Museums: Art, History and Science in Contemporary Culture (Fall, Spring)

Through the study of London’s outstanding array of museums and galleries, and in particular Art collections, students will familiarize with museum-related debates, museum curatorial practice, and museum-skills generally. Students will analyse major art-historical and sociological themes from the perspective of both museum-goers (the public) and museum insiders (curators, restorers, trustees etc.). We shall be asking, for example, in what way have Museums evolved since the 19^th century? How are public/state museums different from private ones? How do museums influence our appreciation and understanding of objects? Do museums have similar attitudes to conservation? What are blockbuster exhibitions? Etc. Students will further benefit from guest lectures and discussions with curators and directors from London’s most important museums. Weekly visits to museums will enable students to test theories put forward in class in front of original works and within specifically designed environments.

Most semesters, registration limited (including minors) to only one History of Art class (HOA prefix and courses cross-listed with HOA) except for art history majors. Check the current semester’s Schedule of Classes for more information.

This course is an object-led study of the history of London through some of London’s most important art. Examining a selection of nine paintings, one sculpture set and one building, this course will introduce students to a variety of ways in which objects tell their stories and, by extension, what those objects say about the history of the city where they are housed. Each week, students will learn about an artist and their context in class, while also tracing the history of a specific object in London up to the present day. While London has had its share of world-class artists and architects, many of the works studied in this course were not made in London. How did London accumulate these objects? Why were they brought or made here? Most importantly, what do these objects tell us about the history of London as the world’s most global city?

This course may also be registered under HST 474.

Most semesters, registration limited (including minors) to only one History of Art class (HOA prefix and courses cross-listed with HOA) except for art history majors. Check the current semester’s Schedule of Classes for more information.

Within an outline history of western architecture, London’s architecture developed, from Roman times to the present, and includes the influences of Italy, France, and later, America. All cities are unique and London developed around two centres, two miles apart, along the River Thames. The original walled city, founded by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago, is now a world centre of finance and commerce. At the West End the once monastic settlement of Westminster is where Monarchy, State, and Church now preside. Weekly class lectures are paired with related visits, including the British Museum, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall Banqueting Hall, Somerset House, Lloyds of London, National Gallery, and Royal Opera House. Some are incorporated in walks in both the City of London, and the West End.

Most semesters, registration limited (including minors) to only one History of Art class (HOA prefix and courses cross-listed with HOA) except for art history majors. Check the current semester’s Schedule of Classes for more information.

Students in the Architecture special program are restricted from this course.

This course has an associated course fee. See the London Course Fees page for more information.