Pathways & Possibilities: History of Art in Action

History of Art A Level is itself a unique subject currently studied by around only 800 students in the UK. Teachers try to bring to life within the confines of the classroom, the wonderful stories and lives of the great painters, sculptors and architects of the past and present, within the context of the social, historical and political climate of the time. Harry’s study of History of Art has been supported by his Geography and Politics A Levels which have provided him with a deeper appreciation of how geopolitical pressures have influenced the practices of several key artists. Harry’s superb and well-deserved offer to study History of Art at The University of Bristol will allow him to explore this wonderful interdisciplinary subject in great depth.

To enhance the History of Art experience at College, Sixth Form pupils visit the Imperial War Museum and Tate Britain in London to focus on works relating to War and Identities in the Lower Sixth, and to the National Gallery and Wallace Collection, also in London, to study seminal works studied within the Renaissance and Baroque modules in the Upper Sixth. Furthermore, pupils enjoy a modern Grand Tour of Florence and Rome in October of Upper Sixth, seeking out key case studies by heavyweights Michelangelo, Raphael and Caravaggio to name but a few. Art History Society lectures throughout the year on Rembrandt, Pablo Picasso, Baroque Rome and Renaissance Venice enable pupils to explore the subject far beyond the confines of the A Level syllabus, and career networking evenings offer the chance for pupils to meet professionals from the Arts and creative industries including auctioneers from prestigious London auction houses and Arts PR experts.

Bristol university is a wonderful institution for Harry to continue his journey in this broad subject, replete with the Arnolfini Museum, Spike Island’s international centre for the production and exhibition of contemporary art, as well as Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. By extension, there is further scope to visit the Victoria Art Gallery and 44AD artspace in Bath. Most significantly, this is a subject for life for Harry, and he can return to College in the future to tap into our extensive alumni network for connections and careers support.

Our Pathways & Possibilities series celebrates the journeys of our pupils as they take their next steps beyond College, while supporting current pupils and parents with expert guidance along the way. Each week, we will share a mix of success stories and practical advice from our Higher Education and Careers team to help inspire and inform future pathways.

If you would like to learn more about Sixth Form at Cheltenham College, please click here.

If you would like to find out more about the College’s Higher Education & Careers department, please click here.