This course develops students’ understanding of the relationship between society and art; art historical terms, concepts and issues; the influence of cultural, social and political factors, as well as developments in materials, techniques and processes of both art and architecture over time.

Subject content
The study of art in its historical and contemporary forms gives students crucial knowledge of world civilisations. It gives students visual and analytical skills that can be applied in many walks of life and the tools to understand how images and objects work to shape our social and political identities. This specification allows students to develop particular strengths and interests, encourages lifelong learning and provides access to higher education and university degree courses in art history and related subjects, as well as art historical-related and other careers. Students should be encouraged to research and investigate art through first-hand experience.

The subject content is divided into three areas:
● A: Visual analysis
● B: Themes
● C: Periods.

Qualification aims and objectives
The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:
● engage actively and independently in historical, theoretical and critical study of art
● be encouraged, where possible, to research and investigate art through first-hand experience of works of art
● understand the relationship between society, culture, technology, politics and art
● understand the ways in which art has been used and interpreted by past and present societies
● understand the influences on, and contributions of, artists
● know key art historical terms, concepts and issues
● understand how visual language is used by artists to communicate ideas, including formal characteristics, materials, techniques, and processes
● be able to analyse and make critical judgements about art
● use evidence to substantiate structured arguments about art
● study a sufficient range of artists and works of art to ensure an appropriate depth and breadth of knowledge and understanding of specified movements/periods and themes.