Myths and Legends, Gods and Heroes: Fame and Celebrity in Art History

6 weekly sessions, on Thursdays at 1 - 3pm, starting from Thursday 12 February.

Overview

This course charts the relationship between image and celebrity. Students will be introduced to a wide range of artworks, including classical sculptures, Renaissance portraits, pop art prints and photographs. Besides classroom presentations, students will have the opportunity to analyse artworks with visits to exhibitions at The Victoria Gallery & Museum and Walker Art Gallery in a quest to understand the importance of fame within our culture.

Syllabus

1. Myths and Legends, Gods and Heroes
   1. Greek/Roman mythology and Renaissance celebration of gods in sculpture and painting
   2. Modern myths & legends eg Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly paintings/ Cy Twombly’s classical epics etc
2. Portraits
   1. Preserving a likeness and celebrating worthies from history to present day
3. Pop goes the Easel -
   1. Art of popular culture, including Peter Blake, Pauline Boty, Andy Warhol etc
   2. The importance of pin-ups, shrines, memorabilia to fans
4. Celebrities as Artists
   1. Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney, Joni Mitchell, Jim Moir etc
5. Artists as Celebrities
   1. Dürer, Leonardo, Picasso, Grayson Perry, Tracy Emin etc
6. Walker Art Gallery – workshops and group discussion using the general collection (free) Meet in the gallery.

Course lecturer

Since completing her Masters Degree in Contemporary art at the University of Liverpool, Julie Robson has been contributing to short courses for both the University of Liverpool's Continuing Education Department, and its International Summer School.  Julie has also carried out freelance work as a writer, lecturer and gallery educator at many galleries and museums in Merseyside and North Wales.

Course fee

• Standard fee: £95
• Concession fee: £50