The Art History Course is curated and presented by Hilary Kay, Antiques Roadshow Presenter
12 different authors contribute their expertise
Ask for assistance at any time
An opportunity to connect with other students globally
No pressure to meet deadlines
Flexible payment options
Start your course when it suits you
7 day money back guarantee
Tutors are drawn from major Art institutions and will guide you through the course
The Art History Course is provided by The Art Institute, presented and curated by art and antiques consultant Hilary Kay. Hilary has brought together 12 passionate art specialists to create an introductory course, designed to provide you with a broad understanding of western art, its history and the world that surrounds it.
The Art History course is delivered online and consists of 12 modules and 12 corresponding assignments. You can study in your own time and at your own pace to get the most out of every module. Normally, you would expect to be dedicating an average of about 4-6 hours per week for 24 weeks. However, many students take up to one year to complete their studies because of family or work commitments. Extensions are available for purchase if required.
Students have the opportunity to delve deeper into specific areas of interest in art by purchasing Advanced Modules. These are similar to short courses and are specially formulated materials to challenge motivated students to achieve more.
Expand your knowledge and skills with our online, live workshops. As a student enrolled in our course, you’ll gain exclusive access to our exceptional lineup of online sessions, carefully curated to empower you on your learning journey.
Hilary Kay is an art and antiques consultant, broadcaster, international lecturer and writer. She is one of the most familiar faces on BBC TV's Antiques Roadshow having joined this successful and long running programme as an expert in 1979. Hilary has featured in countless other television and radio programmes and, in 2010, she won BBC TV's Celebrity Mastermind. Her career in art and antiques began in 1977 when she joined Sotheby's, rising rapidly to head of department; the following year she became Sotheby's youngest ever auctioneer when she took her first sale at the age of 21.
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Each module has been written by a different author recognised in his or her area of expertise. All authors, including the tutors have been drawn from major art institutions, academia and from the international art world. They are all passionate about their subject; they have wide experience in teaching their chosen field to an eclectic audience and are keen to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with you.
Libby has edited art historical books, practical drawing guides and art education publications. She has also been a fine art lecturer and creative development coach for over thirty years. She currently works at The Glasgow School of Art supporting students and graduates with their preparations to become professional practitioners, while maintaining her own writing and fine art practice, focusing on painting and drawing.
Stephen Farthing studied at St Martin's School of Art, London (1969-73) before taking his Masters Degree in Painting at the Royal College of Art, London (1973-76). Here he was awarded an Abbey Major Scholarship, taking him to The British School at Rome for a year from 1976. His teaching career began as a Lecturer in Painting at Canterbury College of Art (1977-79), after which he was a Tutor in painting at the Royal College of Art, London from 1980 to 1985.
Francesca is a writer and art historian based in Bristol. Since graduating with Distinction from the Warburg Institute in 2015, she has launched into a varied freelance career in the arts. Working at the interface between art and the public has left her adept at transforming complex ideas and academic jargon into something both accessible and (fingers crossed) entertaining.
Secunda, Mpumalanga
My course in the Art Institute not only expanded my knowledge in art and art history; but made me fall more in love with art and the history behind all the emotions, ideas, workmanship and influences behind those who created great art.
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Betty's Bay, Western Cape
This course is not designed to be an “iffy” course. It is comprehensive and authentic. It challenged my understanding of art, yet at the same time, enlightened the extremely limited views I had of art.
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Stellenbosch, Cape Town
The last 10 months have flown by, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every module. They have all been interesting, covering amazing periods, artists and their works, and a joy to read.
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Swakopmund, Namibia
The Art Appreciation course is perfect for anyone who would like to expand their knowledge of the history of art and how it continues to have an influence over our present and future.
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kraaifontein, Cape Town
I've loved every moment of the journeys that each module took me on. I've learned so much more about all my favourite artists and about artists that I've never even heard of.
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Kosi Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
I found this course to be stimulating and very fulfilling. It did not only improved my art history knowledge but help me grow as an artist.
Read MoreNot happy? Contact us within 7 days of your enrolment to receive a full refund.
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Design Quarter
Leslie Road, Fourways
Johannesburg, 2191
We offer our course in 8 countries around the world.
View our other international locationsFor answers to our most commonly asked questions, read our FAQs.
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