Western Art from Classicism to Impressionism - adult education class

Course overview

Join broadcaster and author Leslie Primo on a journey to discover Western European art from classicism through to late Victorian art and Impressionism. On the course we will delve into the lives of various artists, their cultural backgrounds, and their influence on subsequent art movements.

The programme follows a broadly chronological approach, encompassing different geographical regions of Europe, and introduces key movements, styles, and artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and others.

Our discussions will cover a wide range of themes and iconographies, from Venus and Cupid to saints and sinners, and consider the changing cultural contexts from the Byzantine and Gothic periods to the Renaissance, Baroque, and Victorian eras.

The course will finish with a visit on Saturday 21st March 2026 to one of London's major art galleries, providing an opportunity to engage directly with artworks discussed during the classroom sessions.

Term dates

•  Autumn Term: week beginning 13 October 2025 until week ending 12 December 2025

•  Spring Term: week beginning 5 January 2026 until week ending 22 March 2026 (includes a museum visit on Saturday 21 March 2026)

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Leslie Primo: l.primo@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).