History of Art Summer School
Art Through the Ages: A Summer of Creative ‘Beyond the Syllabus’ Exploration
Embark on a scholarly summer with Minds Underground's History of Art Summer School, offering Year 12 students an opportunity to delve into the rich world of Art through the ages, guided by inspiring tutors from Oxford and Cambridge.
Spanning from July to August, our online History of Art Summer School includes engaging 1.5-hour sessions every week, led by Oxbridge-educated art historians. Our tutors will delve into diverse epochs and movements, from the classical grandeur of antiquity to the revolutionary spirit of the avant-garde. Immerse yourself in the exploration, discussion, and critical analysis of key art works and debates that extend beyond typical classroom knowledge.
Enrolling in our History of Art summer course will provide you with exposure to first year university level material and hone essential critical analysis skills, mastery of high level concepts and ideas, and the ability to engage in insightful discourse. Tailored for those preparing for top-tier UK Art History university applications, such as Oxbridge, our tutors will guide you in articulating your reasoning and engaging in high level critical discussion ahead of potential university interviews.
Location: Online
Student Age: 15 - 18
Duration: 8 Weeks
Hours: 12 hours (Weekly 1.5hr session)
Dates: July - August
Why Join the Minds Underground History of Art Summer School for Top UK & Oxbridge History of Art Applicants?
Expand Your Knowledge of History of Art Beyond the Syllabus
Discover a wealth of knowledge beyond textbooks, enriching your academic portfolio and setting yourself apart in university applications. The History of Art online course aims to give students exposure to first year university level material to enhance their applications.
Hone Critical Analysis and Argument Building Skills
Learn to critically analyse key artwork and artists throughout history, form insightful opinions, and engage in thought-provoking discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject. Each weekly session will aim to stimulate argument and debate, setting you up for success in potential Oxbridge History of Art interviews.
Gain Confidence Analysing Unseen Pictures
Our Art History Summer School will help you become confident in analysing unseen pictures ahead of potential picture interviews for Art History applications. We will hone skills such as ‘visual sensitivity’ - ensuring students develop acute attention to detail, curiosity, and critical analysis. The course will hone your confidence and ensure you develop strong analytical skills.
Hone Communication and Critical Discussion Skills For Potential Interviews
Enhance your communication and presentation skills through highly interactive classes, where you can confidently voice your ideas and engage with subject experts. Our History of Art tutors mimic the form of an Oxbridge seminar for the Summer School sessions, ensuring prospective Oxbridge History of Art applicants are set up for natural success in their interviews.
Gain Original, High Level Content Ideas For Your History of Art Personal Statement
We aim to provide students with high level, exciting ideas that they can mention in their university application's personal statement, showcasing their passion for History of Art and the skills acquired during our History of Art summer programme. For students also interested in 1-1 History of Art personal statement preparation, we offer tutorial sessions.
Navigating Critical Theories in the History of Art
Studying any subject at university level means bringing different ‘theoretical’ approaches to bear on it e.g. gender theory, social history, anthropology, psychoanalysis, postcolonial theory. Our History of Art tutors will guide you through some of the critical theories that shape our understanding of art, equipping you with high-level tools for critical analysis.
A Taster of History of Art Summer Course Topics
The History of Art As Told By E.H. Gombrich
We will review the History of Art, as told by E.H. Gombrich in his study ‘The Story of Art’ and consider who has been left out – women artists, artists of colour, artists that work in alternative media. Students will consider how to develop an ‘alternative’ history of art which seeks to challenge the ‘artist-genius’ narrative told by Gombrich.
Great Mistresses
In this session we will look at some of the most successful female artists in history, including Griselda Pollock, Berthe Morisot and Tracy Emin. Students will explore how these women were able to navigate the patriarchal conditions in which they lived and consider whether they can indeed be considered ‘Great Artists’.
Art, Looting, Destruction
In this session, students will consider historical and contemporary instances in which art has been stolen or destroyed. They will examine the contexts in which these acts occur and consider how museums and arts institutions could, or should, respond. Students may expect to gain knowledge of some of the most infamous art crimes in history and develop confidence in understanding how these events have shaped the reception of artworks and formed the modern museum.
Considering the Museum Space
In this session we will examine how different museums, from the V&A to the British Museum to ‘White Cube’ spaces effect how viewers respond to art and may contribute to efforts to ‘decolonise’ the museum space. This should prompt students to reflect on the power of architectural structures to shape society and our understanding of visual and material culture.
Introduction to Landscape Painting and Architecture
How has landscape painting informed the landscapes design through history? In this session, we will look at what key artistic movements have dominated landscape design in the past. What can this union of art and architecture tell us about our approach to landscapes today?
Tackling Key History of Art Questions
In this final session we will look at how to approach and tackle potential university interview questions using the knowledge we have gained. This will be an opportunity to employ all the knowledge of the previous sessions into a sustained debate. The session will cover examples of commonly asked interview questions (and answers!), and strategies for answering difficult questions across various formats with a particular focus on theoretical/ abstract questions.
Learn From Inspiring History of Art Tutors From Oxford and Cambridge
Example Cambridge History of Art tutor: Emilia
Emilia graduated from the University of Cambridge with a first-class architecture degree, placing 2nd in her entire cohort. She is currently working as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant for her design tutor. Emilia gained recognition in being awarded the Andre Fu Design Award by Robinson College for innovation and excellence in digital design in an academic context. Although Emilia's degree was not in History of Art specifically, within her architecture degree she often attended lectures given by the History of Art department for her own research. Her dissertation, which was awarded a first-class mark for research into 'on ‘Artistic Representations of Manchester’s Urban Pastoral’, was praised for its interdisciplinary nature that allowed it to equally hold its ground in a Sociology, Art History, or Geography departments.
Example Oxford History of Art Tutor: Millie
Millie graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in History of Art in 2017, before completing a master’s degree in History of Art at the University of Cambridge in 2019. Millie is currently a PhD candidate in the History of Art department at University College London. Millie is an enthusiastic mentor, committed to fostering a love of learning in her students. Millie has experience in preparing students for Oxbridge admissions and for the History and History of Art A-Level exams. Millie has also previously worked in museum education and enjoys sharing her love of learning about the past with students.
Booking the Art History Summer School
Book now to ensure your spot in the Summer School. Our booking page includes 2025 dates and pricing. We limit class sizes to facilitate group discussion, tailored support and individual feedback.
Are You Looking For Further Support For Your University History of Art Application?
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The Summer School is designed to provide exciting talking points for your personal statement. If you are looking for some one-to-one tuition tailored to your specific application, contact us to arrange sessions with an Oxbridge History of Art tutor!
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We offer specialised preparation for the History of Art Admissions Assessment at Cambridge University. Visit our Admissions Test page on the U2 Tuition website to learn more.
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Are you preparing for future interviews at Oxford, Cambridge or other top universities such as UCL? Our Oxbridge History of Art tutors prepare students for all formats of interview questions, hosting preparatory sessions and mock interviews. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ – History of Art Summer School
What is the Minds Underground History of Art Summer School?
The Minds Underground History of Art Summer School is an enriching online educational programme designed for students passionate about the History of Art. Led by top Oxbridge-educated Art Historians, the summer school delves into a diverse range of topics, providing an in-depth exploration of various debates and analyses of artists and their work throughout history.
How will this Summer School benefit prospective History of Art university applicants?
Participating in the online History of Art Summer School can significantly enhance the university application of prospective History of Art students. Beyond traditional classroom learning, you will engage with stimulating debates, critically analyse primary texts, and develop crucial skills in critical thinking and analytical discussion. This experience showcases your genuine passion for History of Art, providing a valuable addition to your university application.
Is this suitable for students at different stages of their academic journey in History of Art?
Yes, the History of Art Summer School is designed to accommodate students at various stages of their academic journey in Art History. Whether you're a Year 12 student looking to enhance your university application or a passionate younger student aiming to broaden your understanding of the History of Art, this programme offers a diverse and enriching learning experience.
Are there specific topics covered during the History of Art Summer School that are relevant for university applications?
Absolutely. The History of Art Summer course covers a range of thought-provoking topics, such as interrogating The History of Art As Told By E.H. Gombrich, exploring ‘Art, Looting and Destruction’, and Considering the Museum Space. These discussions not only enrich your History of Art knowledge but also enhance your analytical skills and deep interest in the subject, crucial for prospective History of Art university applications.
How can I register for Minds Underground’s Online History of Art Summer School?
Registration details and enrolment information can be found on the Summer School booking page. Complete the registration process and we will send you logistical details a month or so before the course commences.
What is the schedule for the virtual sessions?
The History of Art online Summer School sessions take place weekly, with each session lasting 1.5 hours. The course runs from July to September, providing a flexible and comprehensive learning experience.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of the History of Art Summer School?
Participants who successfully complete the programme are able to request a certificate of participation, which can be a valuable addition to your academic achievements and university applications.
Can I expect personal guidance and support during the Year 12 History of Art Summer School?
Absolutely. Our Year 12 History of Art online Summer School is designed to provide personal guidance and support. We keep class sizes small to ensure lots of interaction and individual attention. You'll have the opportunity to interact with our team of experts, ask questions, and receive assistance with your academic and university preparation needs.
Is there an option to follow the History of Art Summer School offline if I can’t attend the live sessions?
Yes, we understand that scheduling conflicts can arise. We offer an offline programme option where students unable to attend live sessions can receive full session recordings and materials. This allows you to engage with the content at your own pace and convenience.
How does the offline programme work, and what materials will I receive?
Students opting for the offline programme will receive access to recorded sessions, lecture materials, assignments, and resources related to each session. You can review the content at your own convenience, ensuring you don't miss out on any valuable information.
Can I still interact with instructors and ask questions if I choose the offline option?
While the offline Summer School doesn't provide real-time interaction with instructors, we encourage participants to reach out with questions through email. Our team is committed to providing support and addressing queries to enhance your learning experience.
Are there specific deadlines or timelines to follow for the offline programme?
The offline programme is designed to be flexible, allowing you to set your own pace within the programme's overall duration. However, we recommend staying on track with the programme schedule to ensure you have ample time for completion and any potential follow-up questions.
How do I enrol in the offline programme, and is there a separate registration process?
To enrol in the offline programme, simply follow the same registration process as for the live sessions on our website. During registration, you can indicate your preference for the offline option. You will receive access to the programme materials upon completion of each session.
Is there a difference in the cost between the live and offline programme options?
The cost for both the live and offline programme options remains the same. We aim to provide a flexible learning experience that accommodates different needs and schedules without additional cost considerations.
Can I switch from the live programme to the offline programme (or vice versa) if my circumstances change?
Yes, you can switch between the live and offline programme options based on your circumstances. Please contact our team to discuss any changes or transitions in your programme participation.
How do I access the recorded sessions and materials for the offline programme?
After registering for the offline programme, you will receive instructions on how to access the recorded sessions and materials through our online platform. This information will be provided to you before the start of the programme.
Will there be any assessments during the History of Art Summer School?
The summer school primarily focuses on immersive learning and skill development rather than formal assessments. The emphasis is on exploring advanced topics, critical discussion and debate, as well as honing essential skills for future academic pursuits.
How can I prepare for the History of Art online Summer Course?
Explore essential Art History concepts, review A-Level/ IB topics, and cultivate an inquisitive mindset for advanced curriculum engagement. Come prepared to actively participate, ask questions, and collaborate with peers to make the most of the learning experience.
How do I contact Minds Underground for further enquiries about the History of Art summer course?
If you have any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact us through the contact form on our website or send an email to enquiries@mindsunderground.com, quoting your contact number in case your email ends up in our Spam folder! Our team will be happy to assist you with any queries.