North American Art: From the Colonial Period to the Present Advanced Module

This advanced module provides a comprehensive exploration of North American art, tracing the labour and vision of artists from the early colonial settlements to the globalised contemporary scene. You will examine the colours and narratives of a continent characterised by rapid growth, cultural diversity, and artistic modernisation.

North American Art Advanced Module Preview

Why This Module Matters

North American art history is a pivotal study in how traditional European organisations were moulded into a new, energetic cultural identity. This module centralises the unique movements that defined the American spirit.

•Understand the transition from honoured European styles to the distinct American landscape movement.
•Explore the visualisation of the "New World" and the social shifts of the 19th and 20th centuries.
•Analyse the rise of American Modernism and the pivotal Post-War shift that moved the art world's focus to New York.

By completing this module, you’ll develop the ability to criticise and value the diverse artistic behaviours that have influenced global visual culture for over three centuries.

What You’ll Learn

Colonial & Revolutionary Art
The early visualisations of the colonies and the art of the young Republic.
Landscape & Identity
How the Hudson River School and the Western expansion characterised the American identity.
American Modernism
The radical shift toward abstraction and the unique flavours of the American avant-garde.
The Contemporary Scene
Contemporary organisations of art and the global impact of Pop Art and Minimalism.

What You’ll Do

Analyse Stylistic Shifts
Identify the transition from honoured realism to radical contemporary abstraction.
Evaluate Cultural Impact
Understand how the industrialisation and urbanisation of America moulded its art.
Interpret Historical Narratives
Connect artistic production to pivotal moments in North American history.
Develop Expert Insight
Formulate honoured critiques on the evolution of the North American art market.

Module Content

This module covers the following topics:

The Colonial Period and the Early Republic
19th Century: Landscape, Genre, and the Civil War
The Gilded Age and American Impressionism
Early 20th Century: Ashcan School and the Armory Show
Post-War: Abstract Expressionism and the New York School
Modern & Contemporary: Pop, Minimalism, and Diversity

Module Outcomes

By completing this module, you will:

Possess a comprehensive understanding of the organisations that define North American art history.
Recognise the works of significant artists who characterised the American vision.
Understand the pivotal shift of the art world's centre from Europe to North America.
Apply critical analysis to the social and political behaviours reflected in the art.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert art tutors provide targeted, specialised guidance throughout this advanced module, helping you navigate the complexities of North American art with confidence. You’ll receive support in understanding the honoured history of the region and interpreting the radical shifts in American style. Tutors help you critically analyse how the American experience has been visualised over time so you can translate theory into a personalised appreciation of this heritage. Our advanced modules include expert guidance from a dedicated tutor, a free six-month extension, and a recognised Certificate of Achievement to bolster your honoured professional profile.

Ready to explore the rich colours and bold history of North American art? This advanced module is your next step. Join us and gain the specialised skills and knowledge to master this fascinating subject!