Discovering Sculpture in the V&A

Course Overview

This daytime course invites you to explore sculpture in depth through through close encounters with outstanding works located in the Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington. Aimed at curious adults of all backgrounds, the course offers a rich and accessible way into the history, making, and interpretation of sculpture across periods and cultures.

Sculpture demands a particular kind of attention. It unfolds in space, engages the body as well as the eye, and invites questions about material, scale, process, and meaning. Throughout the course, you will examine how sculptural works are shaped by their historical context, artistic intentions, and physical presence, developing confidence in looking closely and thinking critically about objects.

Each session begins with a substantial, illustrated introduction at Imperial's South Kensington campus, lasting approximately one hour. These sessions will provide depth and context, exploring subject matter, form, technique, and historical background. After a short break we will then walk across the road to the V&A to study the sculptures together directly in the galleries, where we can discuss some of the ideas introduced in the classroom. Offering classroom study and gallery visits, this course offers the best of both worlds.

The course is taught by a team of five tutors, bringing together different perspectives and areas of expertise: Dr Michael Paraskos, Dr Sarah James, Neville Richter, Viv Lawes, and Richard Barnes. 

No prior knowledge of art history or sculpture is required. All that is needed is curiosity and a willingness to look closely.

Term dates

•  14 October 2026 until week ending 9 December 2026 (classes held once every two weeks)

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content or teaching of this course please contact the course leader, Dr Michael Paraskos, at m.paraskos@imperial.ac.uk 

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi, at  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).