Art Appreciation: Modern Icons: Artworks that Disrupted the 20th and 21st Centuries

What defines a modern art icon? Have you ever wondered why certain works of art have become widely recognised as game-changers in the story of international modern art? On this course, you will have the opportunity to delve deeper into the social, cultural and historical reasons that have shaped the prominence of selected works in the history of art. Spanning the late 19th century up to the present day, we will focus on an individual artist each week, discovering the historical context in which they lived and worked. We will explore also critical views and public reception of their works at the time; and consider how and why some of these viewpoints may have changed over time. Artists featured on the course will include Edouard Manet, Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Antonio Gaudì, Cindy Sherman and Louise Bourgeois. The course will involve discussion and activities to stimulate engagement and enjoyment of the artworks featured each week