.jpg)
Start Date
Thursday 31 July & Friday 1 August 2025, 11am - 4pm
Overview
When asked to explain the enigmatic scenarios in his paintings, Edward Hopper stated, ‘If I could say it in words, there would be no need for art.’ Artists express concepts, feelings and emotions through their chosen tools and materials. Despite this, writers, art historians and critics have analysed and assessed works in the context of exhibitions, social and political history. Galleries provide objective captions and text to help visitors to understand the artist’s or curator’s intentions.
This course looks at creative writers who have taken a different approach, with descriptive, imaginative and sometimes humorous poems and prose about art.
Through slide presentation and informal group discussion, we will examine passages from a range of novelists and poets alongside specific artworks. Participants will be encouraged to express their personal responses to both the writing and the images, opening up new ways of thinking about art and literature.
No experience or prior knowledge is necessary. Texts to be discussed will be provided on Canvas and students may find it helpful to read some of this material beforehand, but may prefer to just come along and enjoy the words and images over the two days.
Syllabus
Day One: Thursday 31 July, 11am - 4pm
11-12 Painters of Modern Life: Zola and the Impressionists
12. - 1pm Workshop and group discussion
1-2 pm Lunch Break
1-2pm The Vermeer Enigma: questioning ‘art-historical novels’ inspired by the Golden Age of Dutch Art.
3-4 pm Workshop and group discussion
Day Two: Friday 1 August, 11am - 4pm
11-12 Image and Imagination: History and art the novels of Julian Barnes
12. - 1pm Workshop and Group Discussion
1-2 pm Lunch Break
1-2pm Art of the Lonely City: Olivia Laing on the New York of Hopper and Warhol.
3-4 pm Workshop and group discussion, plenary.
Please note that the ‘last date available to book’ date is only a guide. We reserve the right to close bookings earlier if courses are over- or under-subscribed. In order to avoid disappointment, please be sure enrol as soon as possible. Registrations will not be processed until the following day if received after 3pm.
Course Lecturer: Julie Robson
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.
Courses fees: Full fee £140
Back to: Continuing Education