After an introduction on Post-Impressionism, our investigation will focus on Georges Seurat and the movement that grew around him. In 1884-86, Seurat devised his famous pointillist technique, applying the paint dot by dot, without mixing colours. This stylistic innovation startled the audience and Seurat was soon designated as the leader of a new rebellious school of painting. We will study some of his masterpieces such as La Grande Jatte, in order to become familiar with his technique, and understand where it came from and what the purpose was. Paintings by artists who followed in his footsteps, such as Paul Signac, Maximilien Luce, and Henri-Edmond Cross, will also be considered. Finally we will discuss this art movement’s place within the late 19th century Parisian art scene, and we will address its posterity. Indeed, early 20th century avant-garde artists such as Matisse, Delaunay, and Giacomo Balla learnt a great deal from Seurat and his followers.
Course aim
In these two sessions, we will explore the life and career of Georges Seurat, and study the famous technique he created, pointillism (aka painting with dots!)
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- No skills or experience needed
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Describe Seurat's pointillist technique
- Discuss the importance of colour theory (science) in Seurat's art
- Name other Neo-Impressionist artists
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
What else do I need to know?
- Nothing else is needed
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
Download full course information sheet
