History of Art

Examination board: Pearson Edexcel

Why study History of Art A-level?

Curious about what art means or how and why it was made? Then History of Art A-level could be for you. An endlessly fascinating subject, it connects everything else you have ever learnt. History of Art combines well with arts and sciences as we explore how buildings stand up, the science of light and the maths behind harmonious proportion as well as the literary and historical contexts in which art is made. The lessons – exploring art through talks, film and discussion – are taught in a relaxed, but intellectually vigorous, atmosphere more like university than school. You will learn and use the correct artistic vocabulary in your essays to articulate your enthusiasm and knowledge (though help is on hand for those who need to develop their writing skills). While you do not need to be able to draw, you do need to be academically curious, enthusiastic, and open-minded to engage with the ideas that have shaped our culture.

All artists express ideas about society, history, politics, wars, religion, power, and all the big questions in life: love, death, joy and sorrow. Studying this subject opens your eyes to the world and helps you understand what it is to be human.

History of Art stimulates intellectual enquiry and encourages independent thought as it requires observation, reflection, and analysis as well as critical thinking and effective communication: brilliant university preparation. Career opportunities abound for History of Art graduates: research, publishing, journalism, museums, the art market, curating exhibitions, restoration, advertising, interior design, education, and television.