History of Art (AQA)

A2 Course Outline

What is History of Art?
"Art History: Making the Visible Legible."
Donald Preziosi

History of Art at A2 requires more analytical thought than the AS. Topics are examined in greater depth and the final exams are longer than the AS.

The course will include group research, visits to art galleries, museums and architecture of interest. It continues to encourage first-hand experience and enjoyment of works of art, architecture, craft and design, whilst developing refined critical, research and other skills.

During the second year of study you'll be able to study History of Art in finer detail in relationship to specific periods and locations. We study two separate centuries, the 15th century and the 20th century. That takes you from medieval religious frescos right through to Andy Warhol or Damien Hirst.

Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the role and achievements of artists, architects, craftspeople and designers in the past and in contemporary society.

What Skills Will Students Develop When Studying History of Art and Design?

• History of Art and Design enables students to develop intellectual, imaginative and creative powers.
• Students will gain first-hand experience and critical awareness of works of art, architecture, craft and design.
• Students will develop an understanding of the relationships between and the connections across art, architecture, craft and design and society at large.
• Students will develop their essay writing skills during the course and will have to assimilate information and present it in a clear and concise way.

History of Art (AQA) A2 Specification
A2 Unit Three 1 hour 30 minutes (60 marks) 25% of Advanced GCE	Investigation and Interpretation (1) This unit tests knowledge and understanding of art and architecture in relation to an art historical period, which is Art and Architecture in fifteenth-century Europe.
A2 Unit Four 1 hour 30 minutes (60 marks) 25% of Advanced GCE	Investigation and Interpretation (2) This unit tests knowledge and understanding of art and architecture in relation to an art historical period and location, which is Art and Architecture in Europe and the United States of America 1900 to 1945.

Structure of the Course
This course will be taught for 6 lessons per week. Homework will be set weekly and deadlines must be adhered to. Reading of textbooks and first-hand experience of works of art, architecture, craft and design is essential.

Recommended Reading
The Story of Art, Gombrich, E. H. Phaidon Press (16th ed.) ISBN 0 7148 3247 2
The Art of Art History, edited by Preziosi, Donald Oxford university Press 1998 ISBN 0 19 284242 0
History of Italian Renaissance Art Painting, Sculpture, Architecture, Frederick Hartt Thames and Hudson

Fees and Dates