Left: "The Valpinçon Bather" by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, 1808 (Louvre); Right: "The Burning of the Houses of Lords and Commons" by J. M. W. Turner, 1834–1835 (Philadelphia Museum of Art)
Over the centuries, there are major themes in the history of art that continue to appear and reappear. Portraiture, landscapes, and scenes of everyday life are a few notable examples artists have interpreted in styles ranging from naturalistic to surreal.
In this course (part 2 concludes in 2022), art historian Joseph Cassar examines important masterworks within selected genres and offers a new way to understand and appreciate the similarities among—and the uniqueness of—the artists and the cultural norms that influenced their choices.
NOV 15 Portraits
Ideal, realistic, and psychological portraits, including works by Van Eyck, Rembrandt, Da Vinci, Picasso, Bacon, and Close.
NOV 22 Landscapes
Landscapes allow us to see what the world looked like from a particular point in time, and through the artists’ unique interpretations. Landscapes, installations, and environmental art, including works by John Frederick Kensett, Turner, Monet, Ansel Adams, Goldsworthy, and Christo.
NOV 29 Holy Pictures
Holy and sacred personages and scenes portraying the Christian faith, including work by Giotto, Fra Angelico, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Emil Nolde, and Georges Rouault.
DEC 6 The Figure
The human figure is one of the more intimate themes in art history. Explore works by Ingres, Delacroix, Renoir, Duchamp, De Kooning, and Freud.
4 sessions
World Art History Certificate core course: Earn 1 credit*
Patron Information
- If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
- Unless otherwise noted, registration for streaming programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
- Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
- Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
- View Common FAQs about our Streaming Programs on Zoom.
*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1 core course credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.
