Course: Women in British Art, 1850–1920

About the course

This 10-week course offers a compelling introduction to the remarkable achievements of British women artists from the mid-Victorian period to the early twentieth century, a time when artistic ambition had to contend with profound social and institutional barriers.

Beginning with pioneering figures such as Emily Mary Osborn and Elizabeth Thompson (Lady Butler), and moving through to Laura Knight and artists associated with the Bloomsbury Group, we will explore how women forged professional careers in a world that was largely closed to them. Along the way, we will encounter artists including Evelyn De Morgan, Anna Alma-Tadema, Louise Jopling, Gwen John, Vanessa Bell and others whose work combines extraordinary technical skill with originality and emotional depth.

The course looks not only at the circumstances these artists faced, such as restricted access to training, exhibitions and patronage, but also at how they navigated, challenged and sometimes quietly subverted the conventions of their time. Particular attention will be paid to understanding the beauty, ambition and artistic intelligence of the work we see on its own terms, rather than as a footnote to male-dominated narratives.

No prior knowledge of art history is required. The course is welcoming, accessible and richly illustrated, offering a rewarding way to deepen your understanding of British art, and to rediscover artists who deserve a far more central place in the story of modern culture.

Useful information:

• The 10-week course takes place at Leighton House on Mondays 5, 12, 19, 26 October, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 November and 7 December, from 11am to 12:30pm.
• The course should be booked in full and individual sessions are not available.
• No previous experience of art history is needed, all are welcome.
• This course is run in partnership with Imperial College London. Please visit the Imperial College London course page for more information and bookings.
• Members of The Friends benefit from a discounted price.
• Maximum group size: 12 participants.

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