The World of the Impressionists - adult education class

Course overview

Join Dr Michael Paraskos for a richly illustrated six-week journey into the vibrant world of the Impressionists. In this course you will explore the key artists of the Impressionist movement in France – including Claude Monet, Pierre‑Auguste Renoir, Édouard Manet, Berthe Morisot, Camille Pissarro and others – and place their work in its broader artistic, social and cultural context.

Together, we will examine how the Impressionists responded to the changes of their time – industrialisation, the new urban landscape of Paris, photography, exhibitions and shifting patronage – and how their innovations in paint, colour, light and subject matter still resonate today.

Whether you are a newcomer to art history or already have some knowledge, this class is open to all adult learners who are curious about this transformative moment in art.

No prior experience or qualifications are required. The sessions will be richly illustrated with slides, discussion and plenty of visual material. The sessions are designed to be accessible and engaging, encouraging lively discussions and debates on the artworks and themes presented.

All welcome, no previous experience necessary.

Reading material or special equipment needed (if any)

There is no required reading for this course.

Term dates

• Wednesday 14 January 2026 to Wednesday 18 February 2026 (inclusive)

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact 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

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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).