Art in Wales: The Welsh Depicted

Overview

Art in Wales: The Welsh Depicted is a topical art history module that explores ideas of portraiture and Welsh identity. Through themed units, you will learn about the history of art in Wales from the medieval period to today. By considering how and why people have been depicted, you will gain a deeper understanding of the intersection of art, identity, and nationhood in Wales and beyond.

This self-paced module is aimed at distance learners with some prior experience of studying art, history, history of art, or the humanities, however anyone with an interest in the subject is welcome. The content will be delivered through lecture videos and assigned reading, while independent tasks and assessments will help you develop your skills in research, writing, and visual analysis.

Programme

This course is a topical art history module that explores ideas of portraiture and Welsh identity. Through themed units, you will learn about the history of art in Wales from the medieval period to today. By considering how and why people have been depicted, you will gain a deeper understanding of the intersection of art, identity, and nationhood in Wales and beyond. 

This self-paced module is aimed at distance learners with some prior experience of studying art, history, history of art, or the humanities, however anyone with an interest in the subject is welcome. The content will be delivered through lecture videos and assigned reading, while independent tasks and assessments will help you develop your skills in research, writing, and visual analysis.  

Varied methods of delivery will provide an inclusive approach to students of different abilities and learning styles. 

Unit 1 - Developments in Welsh Portraiture

Unit 2 - Defining the Welsh Identity

Unit 3 - Welsh Artists and Portraiture

Unit 4 - Portraits of the 'Great and Good'

Unit 5 - The Working Man

Unit 6 - The Artist Depicted - Self-Portraiture

Unit 7 - The Role of Photography

Unit 8 - Conclusions

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

1. Define what portraiture is.
2. Discuss the major historical and cultural influences on Welsh art and portraiture in particular.
3. Visually analyse different works of art
4. Explain, assess, and present works of Welsh art to their peers.
5. Express considered opinions about works of art using appropriate art historical terminology.

Assessments

1. Review of a visit to an exhibition related to portraiture in Wales (30%)
2. Analysis of 2 artworks (30%)
3. Research essay (40%)

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course.

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

A list of materials, not included in the course fees, will be available prior to the course start date.