London as Art Capital

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

With its outstanding permanent collections of historic and modern art from around the globe, thousands of exhibitions opening annually, its contemporary art scene, commercial galleries and auction houses, London is one of the liveliest and most important cities in the world for the presentation of old and new visual art. London as Art Capital is an immersive course, encouraging students to develop an understanding of how artists, art markets, museums and galleries operate in this major metropolis. Students visit art museums and contemporary art galleries to consider their impact in relation to the varying parts of London where they are situated; they analyze issues of display, conservation, and acquisitions; they consider public art commissions and street art; they explore auction houses and the changing fortunes of the art market; and consider the work of contemporary artists in London. Students gain a broad understanding of recent developments in theoretical thinking, particularly in relation to the control and consumption of cultural capital. They also gain insight into the ways in which the arts can support education, health, and wellbeing, and combat social isolation and economic disadvantage within the city. There has never been a more exciting time to focus on the London art world. This is an opportunity to get in-depth insight into the developments and innovations currently taking place in the cultural sector as UK-based artists and art institutions shape future priorities.