Themes at the National Galleries of Scotland: Family

This course is one of a series presented over each term focusing on Family, Love and Identity.

In this course, focusing on Family, each class will examine one painting from the Scottish National Gallery's collection from a thematic perspective, rather than the conventional historical or biographical one. Over the course this different approach will open up these five works to new insights into their social and artistic significance.

Each class will examine one painting from the Scottish National Gallery's magnificent collection from a thematic perspective, rather than the conventional historical or biographical one. Over the course we will examine five works to explore insights into their social and artistic significance.

This course takes place in the Scottish National Gallery, learners should meet at the information desk in the gallery. Learners will be required to move between exhibits. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible are there will be portable seats available for learners who would like access to seating as they move around.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Identify and discuss a number of artworks reflecting the course’s theme of ‘the family’
• Critically analyse the role of the theme of ‘the family’ in art from different periods, styles, etc
• Develop transferable skills in visual analysis, critical thinking, and contextual interpretation to be able to place artworks and their theme in a broader context

No prior knowledge is required, making this course accessible to all with an interest in art.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

The course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course is due to start, unless the course is full or cancelled.