This course explores the vast distributed galleries of permanent artworks that have been created across the London Underground network. The illustrations of dramatic and historic events and of famous personalities will enable students to enjoy a wide-ranging review of London's rich past. In addition, those stations serving major art galleries and museums display selections from their treasure troves of fine art and ancient artefacts, from such institutions as the National Galleries, Tate Britain, the British Museum and the Natural History Museum. The course examines each of these historical and classic works, as well as the more modern art created for the Tube since the 1970's to reflect the local characteristics of the areas served by each station.
Additional information about this course
This course is not supported by the Skills Funding Agency and does not have a fee waiver but concessions may be available - contact the Branch for further details.
Course aim
To explore and enjoy the range of permanent art-works by leading artists that adorn the platforms of the stations of the London Underground. To study the history of London, its people and art treasures that the Underground art portrays.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- No skills or experience needed
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Cite four impressive examples of art-works on the Underground.
- Find the famous mosaics of Eduardo Paolozzi in a London Underground station.
- Relate the 700-year history of the Cross at Charing Cross.
- Solve the mystery of whether Sherlock Holmes ever travelled by Tube.
- Explain the appearance in 2013 of 270 "labyrinths", one in every station, and no. 1 at Chesham?
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
What else do I need to know?
- All materials will be provided
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
- There is one outstanding book on the amazing design and art of the Underground, which would reinforce the course learning: "Underground Heritage" by Antony Badsey-Ellis
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- The tutor also provides corresponding courses addressing the art of the Paris Metro and the Berlin U-Bahn which may be available locally in the future.
Download full course outline
Day School: The Dramatic Art of the London Underground Course Outline
