The Changing Face of Portraiture

This course will explore the many ways in which the artist has chosen to represent the human image over time. Beginning with Flemish and Italian masterpieces of the 1400s, a time which engendered a reawakening of interest in both the human form and character, we then trace the genre’s development through masters such as Titian, van Dyck, Rembrandt, Joshua Reynolds, Picasso and Klimt (see Klimt’s Portrait of a Lady in Black (Marie Breunig) c1894, above)

There will also be a special guest lecture by Leslie Primo entitled “Invention and Re-Invention: Gauguin’s Portraits and the Myth of Paradise”.

The course is structured thematically, and images are discussed within their economic, political and social context.

Art History in Focus’s courses are characterised by a relaxed and entertaining learning environment, which often allows for lively discussion. Lectures last two hours with a break for refreshments, and the talks are illustrated by high quality digital images.

Lectures are on Friday mornings and run from 11-1; doors open at 10.45.

Please note, June 10th will be afternoon session from 2.30-4.30.