Discovering the Fine and Decorative Arts at the V&A Museum

There is nothing as enjoyable as studying the history of art and design using actual objects, rather than photographs or video reproductions, and so for this class we invite you to explore the art and design at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Whether you are interested in the fine and decorative arts out of personal curiosity, or you have a professional or study interest in the objects and the way they are displayed, the insights you will gain into what is sometimes called 'material culture' will be rewarding and enlighhtening.

For most sessions we will join the tutor at the V&A museum in London where we will focus on a different area of art and design history with the aim of learning some of the key defining features of different periods and styles in art and design history, the work of particular artists and craftsmen and women, and some of the ideas that underpin key works of art and design in the museum.

This will range from the medieval obsession with filling in space, to the way Michelangelo's great sculpture David is the embodiment of the Renaissance obsession with the philosophy of Plato, to the reaction against the industrialisation that inspired the founder of the modern studio-pottery movement, Bernard Leach. 

Required Previous Experience (if any)

None

Required Reading Material or Special Equipment Needed (if any)

None specified

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course you will be better prepared to:

1.      understand the historical timeline of Western fine and decorative arts and identify the stylistic characteristics of each period examined

2.     recognise the names of some of the most well-known Western makers of fine and decorative art objects, the style of their work and the historical and contextual factors that influenced the production of the objects they made

3.     identify and discuss the display strategies of the Victoria and Albert Museum, and how this informs our understanding of the fine and decorative arts objects on show.

Teaching and Learning Approach

The teaching and learning approach for this course combines tutor-led instruction, group activities, and independent study supported by individual guidance from the tutor. Classes are conducted face-to-face either in a classroom setting or in a museum and utilise diverse teaching methods, including presentations, multimedia resources, class discussions, and interactive activities. These methods are selected to engage students, accommodate varied learning styles, and support effective understanding of the subject matter. The approach is also designed to recognise and be responsive to the diverse experiences, backgrounds, identities, and cultural perspectives represented within the student cohort, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Additional information

This course descriptor may be subject to change during the delivery of the course, depending on the specific direction and nature of the learner cohort, and is intended to be responsive to the group dynamics as they emerge during the delivery of the course.