Introduction to Art History Course

What you'll learn

Learn art theory and history with our Art Courses in Sydney!

Studying art history isn't just about brushstrokes and colour theory—it's a journey that enriches our understanding of different cultures and societies throughout time. This exploration helps us appreciate diversity and the various ways people express themselves. 

By examining art from the past, we improve our critical thinking skills and learn to analyse complex visuals. Plus, we're inspired by the creativity and innovation of artists from different eras.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this History Course, you should be able to:

  • Recognise key periods in art history and their defining characteristics.
  • Identify influential artists from each period and analyse their contributions.
  • Understand the social, political, and cultural contexts that influenced art movements.
  • Critically engage with artworks through informed observation and analysis.
  • Trace the evolution of artistic techniques and themes over time.

Course content

What will be covered in this Art History Course?

Week 1

  • Without Towns and Cities – the Origins of Art and First Nations Image Making
  • Art and the Earliest Cities – The Fertile Crescent and the Indus Valley Civilisation
  • The Art of Classical Greece – Applied mathematical harmony meets observed naturalism
  • The Art of China and the Qin Dynasty
  • The Greco-Buddhist art of Gandhara

Week 2

  • Byzantine Art – the Roman Empire post classicism?
  • The Umayyad Caliphate and the rise of Islamic art
  • The Art of Europe in the Early and Late Middle Ages – from the Lindisfarne Gospels to the Cathedral City
  • The Italian Renaissance artist - from workshop craftsman to aspiring gentleman
  • Early-modern women artists
  • Mesoamerica and the art of the Olmec, Mayans, Aztecs and Inkas.

Week 3

  • The art of baroque Europe and the “end” of the Renaissance
  • French Rococo hedonism
  • Neoclassicism and the Enlightenment
  • The Realist movement in art and “authenticity”
  • French Impressionism
  • From the French Avant-Garde to Formalist Abstraction
  • From 1920s Dadaism to 1960s Neo Dadaism and the art world hegemony of “contemporary” art.

Intended audience

Who is this Introduction to Art History Course for?

This series is perfect for anyone with a passion for art, from complete beginners to those with intermediate knowledge who wish to broaden their understanding of art history.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon Street & Victoria Road)

Course materials

What to bring to class

  • A notebook and pen for notes and observations.
  • A willingness to explore and discuss art across the ages.

Course testimonials

Course tutors

Dominique Millar holds two Master's degrees, one in Italian art history and the other in art curatorship. He is adept at effectively communicating art history to audiences with varying levels of...

Great reasons to enrol in a short course with us

Small classes

A personal approach means quality learning, so you can enjoy plenty of interaction with your instructor and the chance to ask questions.

Short & sweet

Our short courses & workshops get straight to the point, providing the skills you need with minimal commitment of your precious time.

Facilities & equipment

Our range of venues suit every type of course, are easy to get to, and have the equipment and tech needed to support your learning.

Easy, secure enrolment

Enrol online 24/7 with a safe, convenient 3-step process, and you can change your mind up to 7 days before class starts.

Quality instructors

Our educators bring first-hand experience and knowledge, with up-to-the-minute practices from diverse industries.

Business or pleasure

Our courses help you rapidly increase your skills and knowledge, for professional development or personal interest.

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Classes Online Courses

Introduction to Art History Course

<p>Learn art theory and history with our <a href="https://www.sydneycommunitycollege.edu.au/courses/visual-arts/painting">Art Courses</a> in Sydney!</p>

<p>Studying art history isn't just about

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$200 Limited inc GST / $160 / $170 / $180

If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Introduction to Art History Course

If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Introduction to Art History Course