Edexcel 9HTO Ms Janice Gearon
Art History
Why should I study Art History? As well as offering pupils the opportunity to extend their knowledge and understanding of a wide range of visual arts, Art History also encourages pupils to make contextual links with other areas - historical, social, political and religious. This healthy crossing of subject borders broadens pupils’ outlook and perspective on the arts and humanities in general.
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking Art History? Pupils need no prior qualifications or specific Art History knowledge before taking this course. GCSE Art and Photography can be helpful, but certainly not necessary. A love of the visual arts, an interest in their contextual significance and relevance, and a willingness to learn how to analyse, discuss and write cogently about them, is what is needed.
What will I develop?
• • • • • • • •
critical understanding of works of art, placing them firmly in the context in which they are found. knowledge and understanding of art historical movements, practitioners and works, considering the ways that these change and evolve within chronological and thematic frameworks, ranging from classical antiquity to cutting-edge twenty-first century works of art. awareness of art historical terms and concepts and the significance of techniques and materials in the creation of artefacts. knowledge and understanding of a range of media including painting, sculpture and architecture. understanding of the principal methods of analysis and interpretation, and the ability to make critical judgements. appreciation of critical interpretations and theory of art. the ability and confidence to express and communicate knowledge and understanding. active and independent learning, with
•
opportunities to extend knowledge beyond the curriculum. an appreciation of art works through first-hand experience by visiting galleries, public buildings, museums etc. in the UK and abroad.
Who is this course suitable for?
• • •
Any pupil who enjoys art and wishes to extend their knowledge and understanding of painting, sculpture and architecture, Art and photography pupils wishing to develop their analytical and contextual awareness of the visual arts. Pupils wishing to study Art History at university.
How is the course assessed? The course is assessed at the end of the second year of study. The qualification consists of two components: Paper 1: Visual Analysis and Themes Part 1: Visual analysis [three compulsory questions on unseen photographs, each of a painting, sculpture and building] Part 2: Themes [pupils write on two themes; each has a single compulsory question in two parts] 110 marks. Weighting: 50% Paper 2: Periods Compulsory questions on two selected Art Historical Periods For each Period pupils answer a single compulsory question in four parts. 110 marks. Weighting: 50%
What can I do at the end of my course? You could carry on the study of Art History at university, or of other Humanities degrees. In terms of professions after study, work in the world of art or architecture as an art adviser or investor; a gallery curator; an art conservator; a freelance writer; or even a film or TV stylist is open to you! Art History is also valued within the world of advertising and the creative industries.
31
