Art Appreciation: Turner, Constable, & the emergence of Modern British Art

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Course sessions:

• Monday 29th September 2025, 1:00 – 3:00pm
• Monday 6th October 2025, 1:00 – 3:00pm
• Monday 13th October 2025, 1:00 – 3:00pm

Discover how British art evolved during a time of rapid social and cultural change. Along the way, you'll explore how British artists responded to nature, industry, politics and beauty - and how they helped shape modern art as we know it.

What will this course cover?

We’ll explore the lives and work of key figures such as Turner, Morris, and their contemporaries, tracing how their styles and ideas reflected the changing world around them. You’ll learn about different artistic movements, and how artists used colour, form and symbolism to express new ways of thinking.

What will I get out of this course?

You’ll develop the confidence to look at and talk about modern British art, and a stronger sense of how artistic styles and ideas evolved over time. You’ll also gain insight into how art can reflect cultural values, personal beliefs and moments of change.

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.