Themes at the National Galleries of Scotland: Masterpieces

Join us in the vibrant setting of the Scottish National Gallery and take a close look at some of the finest examples of art on show.

We will look at five paintings that are the finest examples of art produced in different historical eras of European culture. We will discuss the style, influences and broader context of the art and consider the developments in art history over time.  

Please note, this course takes place in the Scottish National Gallery (meet at the Information Desk at the Gallery).

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible. There are portable seats available for students attending on foot who would like access to seating during the course.

Any essential or recommended reading will be confirmed 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:

• Describe using appropriate terminology works of art related to the course;
• Assess critically the works studied;
• Consider these works within the wider context of the history of art, and the Scottish National Gallery. 

This course is for those with little or no experience of 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. 

There are no specific entry requirements for this course.  

Please note, this course takes place in the Scottish National Gallery (meet at the Information Desk at the Gallery). 

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible. There are portable seats available for students attending on foot who would like access to seating during the course. 

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented orally and in writing. You must be comfortable studying 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 study materials.   

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.