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Futures Week: London’s Art World Uncovered

History of Art and Art Students Gain Exclusive Industry Insight on London Futures Week Trip

Pupils from the History of Art and Art departments enjoyed an inspiring Futures Week visit to London, exploring world-renowned collections at The Courtauld Gallery and gaining exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Bonhams Auction House.

As part of Futures Week, Pupils from the History of Art and Art departments travelled to London for a unique opportunity to experience two very different but equally important aspects of the art world: academic study and the international art market.

The day began with a visit to The Courtauld Gallery, where pupils were welcomed by a current Courtauld Institute student. Through an engaging guided tour, they explored masterpieces spanning centuries of artistic achievement while gaining valuable insight into what it is like to study History of Art at one of the world’s leading institutions.

Saskia reflected on the experience:

“The History of Art department day trip to London provided us with valuable insight into the experience of studying History of Art at the Courtauld Institute. The on-site gallery took us on a journey through the ages, from early medieval altarpieces all the way to the better-known Impressionist movement.

Our personal student guide left us inspired by her insightful criticisms and observations of the works we encountered. Throughout the visit, we considered the nature of patronage and legacy, which was a particular interest of our guide. Our tour therefore concluded with a fascinating discussion, whilst surrounded by Cézanne’s intimate scenes and the captivating landscapes of Monet, on why people attach their names to galleries.

The artists amongst us were also fascinated by the array of artistic techniques the gallery showcased, including early sketches and preliminary studies for the final pieces. A truly enriching experience for all, to say the least.

For a Courtauld student, discussing and closely analysing works of art is a regular practice. This includes personal presentations in front of works students have researched to help develop their peers’ understanding. Therefore, our visit offered a meaningful glimpse into the academic life of a History of Art student and left many of us eager to learn more.”

The visit gave pupils the opportunity not only to study famous works of art up close but also to experience the discussion, critical thinking and presentation skills that form the foundation of university-level History of Art. Seeing works by artists such as Cézanne and Monet in person helped bring classroom learning to life while encouraging students to think about the stories behind both the artworks and the institutions that preserve them.

In the afternoon, pupils visited Bonhams Auction House, one of the world’s leading international auction houses, where they enjoyed exclusive access behind the scenes. Hosted by specialists Claire Tole-Moir and Charlie Thomas, students discovered how artworks and historic objects are researched, catalogued and prepared before going under the hammer.

Francesca described the experience:

“As part of futures week the History or art and Art department joined together to embark on a trip up to London. We were fortunate enough to get a real insight into the art dealing world through several contacts: Claire Tole- Moir and Charlie Thomas, both of whom are specialists at Bonhams auction house. We were lucky enough to be able to be taken around several rooms displayed with items getting ready to be lotted up for live auction. from the ancient Egyptians and Roman pottery and artefacts to renaissance furniture and silver ware. it was fascinating to hear about Charlie’s and Claire’s career paths and how they ended up in specialising in furniture and Pop culture. The auction house itself was a privilege to be shown around with Bonhams being one of the top auction houses internationally, successfully selling large collections from for example from costumes from downtown abbey to the contents of family estates. the highlight of my visit was seeing several beautiful ornate silver mounted claret jugs.”

The exclusive tour highlighted the diverse range of careers available within the art world, from curatorship and academic research to auctioneering, specialist valuation and art dealing. Pupils were able to see first-hand how expertise, historical knowledge and commercial insight come together within an international auction house.

The trip formed an exciting part of Futures Week, helping pupils connect their classroom learning with real-world opportunities while broadening their understanding of higher education and careers within the creative industries. By experiencing both the academic environment of The Courtauld Institute and the commercial world of Bonhams, pupils returned with fresh inspiration and a greater appreciation of the many pathways available within the arts sector.

Click here to find out about life in Sixth Form at Cheltenham College.

A group of people stands in an art gallery during History of Art Futures Week, closely observing framed paintings on a white wall. One person appears to be explaining or discussing the artwork to the others amid ornate details and wooden floors.
A man in a pink shirt gestures whilst speaking to a group of four people in an art gallery during History of Art Futures Week, with several framed paintings hanging on the wall behind them.
A group of people listens to a woman giving a tour during History of Art Futures Week in an art gallery, standing in front of a framed painting on a white wall. The painting depicts a bar scene with a woman at the centre.
A group of seven people sit and talk in a modern, sunlit lounge with large windows during History of Art Futures Week. Some hold drinks, and bags and magazines are on the table in the foreground. The atmosphere appears relaxed and informal.
A group of people stands in a museum room around an ancient Egyptian sarcophagus, listening to a guide as part of History of Art Futures Week. The scene is set with wooden floors, soft lighting, and two glass cases displaying artefacts.
A group of people stands around a large ancient vase displayed on a plinth in a museum, attentively listening to a woman in a black dress as part of History of Art Futures Week, who appears to be explaining something about the artefact.