British Art in the 20th Century (daytime)

Join Dr Michael Paraskos on a richly illustrated daytime journey through the story of twentieth-century art in Britain — a story that is far more adventurous, radical and internationally significant than it is often assumed to be.

At the dawn of the twentieth century, Britain was one of the world’s great powers. Yet in art history it has frequently been overshadowed by better-known centres of modernism such as Paris, Munich and New York. This course sets out to challenge that assumption, revealing a vibrant and distinctive modern art made in Britain that deserves to be better known.

Following a clear chronological path from the early 1900s through to the 1970s, we will explore how British artists engaged with modernism on their own terms. They absorbed new ideas from abroad — from Post-Impressionism to abstraction — but transformed them into something unmistakably British in character, shaped by local traditions, social change and lived experience.

While London plays a central role, the course also looks beyond the capital to places such as Glasgow, Leeds, Cornwall and Belfast, showing how modernist ideas flourished across the country. You will discover how many of the most innovative developments in British art were driven not only by established elites, but by working-class artists, women, and émigrés who reshaped the cultural landscape.

Along the way, we will encounter familiar names and celebrated works, but also uncover some surprising and often overlooked aspects of modern British art — from its links to spiritualism and radical politics, to its challenge to authority and its eventual global influence.

No previous knowledge of art or art history is required. All concepts and terms are clearly explained, and the course is taught in a lively, accessible and engaging way. Whether you regularly visit galleries or simply want to get more out of London’s remarkable art scene, you will be warmly welcomed.

A version of this course is also available in the evening, on Tuesdays 18:00-19:30.

Term dates

•  Summer Term: week beginning 11 May 2026 until week ending 19 June 2026

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, 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).