The expansion of the British Empire during the three centuries between 1600 and 1900 has had a profound impact on various aspects of Britain, including its art and visual culture. Nonetheless, until recently, the mainstream narrative has focused on the idea of British art, with insufficient attention to the crucial role other cultures played. This session will take a global perspective and look at a series of artworks at the V&A, and explore the alternative ways we can perceive the idea of British art.
Course aim
To view and discuss British art and visual culture (c. 1600 – 1900) from a global perspective.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Appreciate the impact on British art as a result of major cross-cultural exchanges Britain had with other parts of the world between c. 1600 and c. 1900
- Identify non-British influence in British artworks
- Be more aware of taking a global perspective in appreciating British/European art
What else do I need to know?
The meeting point is at the Exhibition Road entrance of the V&A.
View full course information sheet
