You will find that some courses are only available for WEA members at this time, as part of member's priority booking. Courses will become available for all at 11 am on Wednesday 3rd July. Alternatively, become a WEA member today to book right away. Click on the 'Become a member' link at the top of the page.

Early booking is a membership perk for WEA members, where courses are available exclusively before becoming available for everyone else.

Course overview

We will explore the developments in Modern 20th century sculpture through the work of a selection of women sculptors. Then we will consider the way these sculptors experimented with shape and form, in figurative representational and abstract ways which often pushed boundaries and set precedents. We will analyse the sculptor's styles and choice/use of different mediums. We will also consider the wider chronological context of sculpture and how these sculptors relate to the developments. This course is for learners who have an interest in Art and a curiosity for this three-dimensional medium. The course material will cover a range of 20th century material, making comparisons and contrasts.
This course is for early booking only.

Course description

This course will explore some of the developments in Modern 20th century sculpture as sculptors were breaking away from convention and tradition, just as artists were doing in painting. The significant transformation within the genre of sculpture at this time has resulted in a fascinating display of the three-dimensional format which continues to challenge the viewer and invite interpretation. Sculptors to be featured will include the following; Barbara Hepworth, Elizabeth Frink, Sophie Ryder, Emma Stothard, Louise Bourgeois, Niki de Saint Phalle, Ursula Von Rydingsvard (some in more detail than others). Whilst some of these may be more familiar than others, this course provides an opportunity to discover those perhaps less familiar and explore a range of their work and the differences between them, taking the figurative and abstract responses by these sculptors to their subjects. Learners will discuss and analyse examples of sculptures, making comparisons and contrasts, as well as achieving an understanding of how the artists fit into the wider context. Prepare to be visually enthralled by the experimental approach of these sculptors as they made their mark on the world of Art and contributed to innovation and change. The course will be fully illustrated with discussion integral to each of the sessions.

What financial support is available?

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.

What other support is available?

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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