Art Appreciation: Art and the Landscape

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Course sessions:

• Monday 22nd September 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm
• Monday 29th September 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm
• Monday 6th October 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm
• Monday 13th October 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm
• Monday 20th October 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm

Some of our best-loved paintings are landscapes - the idyllic country scenes of Constable, the atmospheric creations of Turner and the delightful Dutch and Flemish canals and windmills.

What will this course cover?

This course will trace the development of landscape art from early Northern Renaissance backgrounds via picturesque and Impressionist interpretations to recent landscape artists such as Peter Lanyon. We will also look at the influence on European landscapes from Chinese and Japanese artists and from aboriginal art.

What will I get out of this course?

Develop and hone your critical thinking skills through close analysis of each artist and their work. Discover how to enjoy these landscapes from artists around the world in their historical context, and discuss the cultural, political and social influences which shaped their art.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills or experience?

No previous experience is necessary - just a lively, open-minded interest in art as well as the social, cultural, political and historical context in which these works were produced

What do I need to bring with me?

You don’t need any special equipment. You’re welcome to bring a pen and notebook if you’d like to take notes or jot down ideas.

Since 1903 the WEA have been delivering on our charitable mission - to bring lifelong learning within reach of everybody who needs it.

Today, we continue to empower adults by delivering great teaching across England and Scotland, reaching tens of thousands of learners each year.

We believe in keeping group sizes down, making it easier for you to speak up, get to know your fellow learners and get actively involved in learning and sharing your own expertise.