Participants will examine the foundational architecture and sculpture that survives from the 5th century BCE through the Hellenistic period and into the Roman world as it changes from paganism to Christianity. Byzantium and the arts of the Middle Ages are explored as well, tracing the ways in which Christendom was glorified through light and colour in Gothic churches and sacred objects. With site visits to major museums and galleries, as well as guest speakers who will share their expertise, participants will explore these topics not only through lectures, but through on-site experiences and in conversation with industry leaders.
The broad cultural, political and economic developments are documented, leading to the birth of humanism and the search for agency in a world that was expanding geographically out of Europe. At the centre were the thinkers and theologians of the Italian Renaissance, and propelling these ideas were the merchants and bankers who employed a new breed of artists. Participants can expect to gain practical and intellectual skills, such how to conduct a visual analysis of an artwork, as well as transferable skills and a knowledge and understanding of art that is useful beyond the walls of the classroom.
Demonstrate an understanding of the evolution of art from ancient Greece to the Renaissance
Learn about different types of art forms from these periods and how they influenced future work, from architecture and sculpture to painting and drawing
Consider art within the wider context of circulation, curation, display, and consumption
Understand broad theories or philosophies of art, as well as being able to competently discuss and communicate responses to artworks
Apply knowledge about art to the historical, cultural and economic context, and vice versa
Course Leader, Summer Program, London
Viv Lawes is an author, journalist, lecturer and curator with over 25 years’ experience in the art market. She studied History at York University and graduated with an MA in Fine and Decorative Art from Sotheby’s Institute in 1997, where her thesis focused on the textile trade between England and India/ China in the 17th and 18th centuries. Learn more...
Read MoreWeek 1: Begin with an exploration to architecture and sculpture in Ancient Greece.
Week 2: Explore Rome, Byzantium and Early Christian Art.
Week 3: Move on to art and philosophy in Ancient Greece, Rome and Byzantium with a guest lecture from an expert art historian.
Week 4: Discover the Romanesque and Gothic Arts of Medieval Europe.
Week 5: Hear from an esteemed guest lecturer on light, colour and thought in Christian Europe.
Week 6: End with a lecture on humanism, social change and cultural development during the Renaissance.
Course participants take away in-depth and valuable insight into the current and future art world. Those who successfully complete their course will receive a certificate of completion from Sotheby’s Institute of Art.
Sotheby’s Institute of Art course participants come from all over the world, from a wide variety of backgrounds. As they study, travel, and explore the art world alongside each other throughout the program, fierce and long-lasting collaborations are frequently born. Individuals who complete these courses join our network of over 8,000 past participants around the globe who hold top positions at renowned art organizations.
English Language Requirement
Course participants should be proficient in written and spoken English and be able to participate in group discussions and presentations in English. It is recommended that participants have the equivalent level of IELTS score of 6.0 /TOEFL score of 78 IBT, however evidence of test scores is not required to register.
Age Requirement
Courses are open to participants 18 years of age or older, however, we prefer that students have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience to be able to properly engage in the course.
For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions.
We encourage interested individuals to book a consultation time with a member of our admissions team to learn more about this course and our registration process.
Please use this link to book a consultation time via phone or video call.