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Art Appreciation: Art of Christmas - Christmas images and how artists interpret the Christmas story
Course details
Course code
Q00016856Course date
Number of classes
1 sessionsTimetable
Branch
WinchesterTutor
David BrindleyFee range
How you'll learn
Venue
St Lawrence Parish Rooms (Winchester)Colebrook Street
Winchester
SO23 9LH
Level of study
Entry Levels 1,2,3: If you have never studied this subject before and you’re not confident in your skills, Entry levels are a good starting point.
Level 1: Covers basic skills and knowledge needed for this subject
Level 2: Building on basic knowledge or experience. Similar to Grade 4/ C at GCSE or O level in England or Standards in Scotland.
Level 3: Learn about the topic in-depth and have a broad range of skills. Independent working Equivalent to an A level in England or Higher in Scotland.
Beginners: A perfect introduction if you have no experience and skills in this subject.
Improvers: The next step if you have basic skills or knowledge but want to progress them further.
Advanced: Build on the solid experience and skills you have in this subject, applying your skills and knowledge in a more complex way.
Course overview
Course description
Beginning with the Angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she is to bear a child who will be God’s son, this extensively illustrated study day with WEA tutor David Brindley, looks in detail at each part of the Christmas story as imagined by artists. Fra Angelico’s agenda-setting annunciation fresco starts us on a journey of investigation. Why are the birth narratives of Jesus in only two of the four gospels? Why do the gospel accounts differ so widely? How do artists imagine the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem? Giotto and Reubens give us their versions of the shepherds’ at the crib. The visit of the wise men was a favourite subject of Renaissance artists - Botticelli and Mantegna depict them , and later Rembrandt give a different interpretation. The dark story of the massacre of the innocent children by Herod is shown by Breugel, and the strange and little known legends of miracles on the journey of the Holy Family to Egypt fascinate several artists. We then look at the development of images of Santa Claus, and at the importance of Christmas cards as an art form. This richly illustrated study day is the perfect preparation for the Christmas season.
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What financial support is available?
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We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.
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What other support is available?
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All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.
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