Studying art history starts with taking a look at some of the major art movements, including the artists and events that defined them and the evolution of art over time.
styles of art
You don't have to know everything about every single art movement or style to pass GCSE art; but it certainly helps to be able to talk about the history of our subject and how it has influenced you.
The images below link to information sheets; quick guides to the major European art movements and the artists, craftspeople and designers who created them. Each sheet also has an example of a contemporary artist or designer who is working in the the style today. Use them as a starting point for further research.
Please be aware that this is only one perspective of the story of art and it focuses mainly on Western/European art movements starting with the Renaissance. This is not to say that the art before the Renaissance wasn't important or isn't worth looking at; just we can't include every style of art from history. There are more stories of how art has developed out there for you to find.
the renaissance
mannerism, baroque & rococo
neoclassicism, romanticism & realism
modern art
Modern art grew out of Realism as the Impressionists pioneered the use of light in their painting. Most of the major art movements were created during this period as artists challenged what 'art' could be and the development of their work linked to similar rapid changes in society, technology and thought.
Many of these styles overlap into contemporary, or post-modern, art and artists in the 21st century still use, and abuse, the styles and traditions created here.
Many of these styles overlap into contemporary, or post-modern, art and artists in the 21st century still use, and abuse, the styles and traditions created here.
contemporary & postmodern art
Modern art foreshadowed several characteristics of what would later be defined as postmodern art. Several modern art movements can often be classified as both modern and postmodern, such as pop art.
Postmodern art places a strong emphasis on irony, parody and humour in general and use the whole history of modern art as a reference point. This art often questions what can be regarded as 'fine art' and challenges the viewer. It can sometimes be difficult to understand.
Postmodern art places a strong emphasis on irony, parody and humour in general and use the whole history of modern art as a reference point. This art often questions what can be regarded as 'fine art' and challenges the viewer. It can sometimes be difficult to understand.
essential viewing
Watch the videos below to find out more about some of the artists mentioned in the files above. We've tried to cover the main artists of some movements but also give you a wide range of options so you develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of art history.
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want to know more?
Click the links below to find out more about the history of art - the more reading you do the easier it will be to form your own opinions and ideas.