Australian Art: Colonialism to Contemporary Advanced Module

This advanced module provides honored insight and in-depth knowledge of Australian art as it found its unique voice in the "Great Southern Land." From the first explorers recording their honored discoveries to contemporary artists shaping a national heritage, you will explore the colors and stories of a civilization evolving through its visual culture.


Australian Art Advanced Module Preview


Why This Module Matters

Understanding the history of Australian art is essential for recognizing how a colonial spirit transformed into a distinct national identity. This module centralizes the study of key movements and the domestic art market.

  • Explore how early European visualizations of "Terra Australis" evolved into a unique local aesthetic.
  • Gain a deep understanding of Indigenous art and its pivotal role in the national artistic narrative.
  • Analyze the domestic art market and the valuing of Australian heritage works.

By completing this module, you’ll develop a sophisticated ability to criticize and appreciate the unique structures and styles that define Australian art over the last 200 years.



What You’ll Learn

What You’ll Learn

  • Colonial Foundations
    The "Art of Necessity" and how the First Fleet recorded the new landscape.
  • National Identity
    How the Heidelberg School and "Marvellous Melbourne" characterized the Australian spirit.
  • Modernism & Beyond
    The awakening of modern styles and the transition into a global art program.
  • Indigenous Art
    The significance and honored history of Indigenous artists within the Australian canon.
What You’ll Do

What You’ll Do

  • Analyze Stylistic Evolutions
    Identify the shifts from colonial recording to contemporary expressionism.
  • Evaluate the Art Market
    Understand how Australian art is traded, valued, and collected domestically.
  • Interpret Cultural Narratives
    Connect historical events like the Gold Rush to the visualizations of the era.
  • Develop Critical Insight
    Formulate honored opinions on how "Australianness" is defined in contemporary art.


Module Content

This module covers the following topics:

  • Terra Australis and the European Imagination
  • First Fleet and the Art of Necessity
  • Squatters, Explorers, Gold and Sheep
  • Marvellous Melbourne, Sensuous Sydney
  • Modernism Awakens
  • Beyond Modernism and the Academy of the Global
  • Paradigms Lost: Contemporary Perspectives
  • The Domestic Australian Art Market

Module Outcomes

By completing this module, you will:

  • Possess a comprehensive understanding of Australian art history and its key organizations.
  • Recognize the works and influence of the most significant Australian artists.
  • Understand the evolution of the colonial spirit into a globalised national identity.
  • Apply critical analysis to the domestic art market and heritage prioritization.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert art tutors provide targeted, specialized guidance throughout this advanced module, helping you navigate the complexities of Australian art with confidence. You’ll receive support in understanding historical contexts, interpreting stylistic shifts, and analyzing the cultural significance of both colonial and contemporary works. Tutors help you critically evaluate the "Australianness" of art so you can translate theory into a personalized appreciation of national heritage. Our advanced modules include expert guidance from a dedicated tutor, a free six-month extension, and a recognized Certificate of Completion to enhance your honored portfolio.

Ready to immerse yourself in the rich colors of Australian art history? This advanced module is your next step. Join us and gain the specialized skills and knowledge to master this fascinating subject!



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