Fine and Decorative Arts in the V&A - adult education class

Course overview

There is nothing as enjoyable as studying the history of art and design using actual objects, rather than photographs or video reproductions, and so for this class we invite you to explore the art and design at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Whether you are interested in the fine and decorative arts out of personal curiosity, or you have a professional or study interest in the objects and the way they are displayed, the insights you will gain into what is sometimes called 'material culture' will be rewarding and enlightening.

For the sessions we will join the tutor at the V&A museum in London where we will focus on a different area of art and design history with the aim of learning some of the key defining features of different periods and styles in art and design history, the work of particular artists and craftsmen and women, and some of the ideas that underpin key works of art and design in the museum.

This will range from the medieval obsession with filling in space, to the way Michelangelo's great sculpture David is the embodiment of the Renaissance obsession with the philosophy of Plato, to the reaction against industrialisation that inspired the founder of the modern studio-pottery movement, Bernard Leach.

Reading material or special equipment needed (if any)

Suggestions for optional reading may be given by the tutor, or please contact the tutor for recommendations.

Term dates

•  Spring Term: week beginning 12 January 2026 until week ending 20 March

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Viv Lawes: v.lawes@imperial.ac.uk

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi: c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).