History of Art develops the understanding of the relationship between society and art; art historical terms, concepts and issues; the influence of cultural, social and political factors as well as developments in materials, techniques and processes of both art and architecture over time.
The subject content is divided into three areas:
A: Visual analysis
Helps develop the understanding and ability to undertake effective visual analysis.
Review and analysis across painting, sculpture and architecture from within the European tradition of art, from Classical Greece (500 BCE) to the present, all help to develop a wide and impressive visual literacy.
B: Themes
Explore artists and works from both pre- and post-1850 and from both within and beyond the European tradition. Work across at least three types of art: 2D, 3D and architecture to ensure diversity of knowledge an insight and maximises variety and enjoyment.
C: Periods
The study of a period is intended to provide the opportunity to research and explore the key movements, concepts, artists, architects, contextual factors and related developments of art and architecture in a specific place (or places) and across a defined time frame.
The nature of the course, and its content, encourages teaching and learning to be student-centred. Throughout the course, you will be supported and encouraged and will have many opportunities to research and investigate art through first-hand experience. Visual analysis, exploring themes and gaining insight into a defined time frame will be brought about by discussion, reading and visual resources. There will also be the opportunity to develop independent study through study packages and resource-based learning.
Paper 1: Visual Analysis and themes
This is a three-hour written examination (50% of the qualification) which comprises two sections: Visual Analysis & Themes.
Paper 2: Periods
This is a three-hour written examination (worth 50% of the qualification)
The History of Art course is about researching and exploring the visual arts, culture and ideas of the world. It develops critical and analytical thinking, good communication skills and supports the improvement and sophistication of written work.
From here there are many higher education courses in related subjects, including Art History, History and Art and Design. Alternatively, the general analytical and interpretative skills developed will help bring success in a wide range of university degree courses (e.g. Film Studies, Marketing, Business, etc).
Employment opportunities can include work in museums and galleries or careers in sectors that require visual literacy and analytical skills, such as advertising, marketing and communications.
Course materials will be provided for students in the form of booklets. The use of booklets will assist the learning of the course content and give examples of and develop the skills surrounding assessment. A financial contribution towards production of the booklets may be requested on one occasion over the two-year course. Peter Symonds has a student support fund for those students who have difficulty making a financial contribution.
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Mathematics and English Language.