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This course offers an insightful journey through the evolution of modern art, beginning with the Precisionists and the Harlem Renaissance, and culminating with the art of today.

In the company of Viv Lawes and Michael Paraskos, we will follow the story of modern art after the early European avant-gardes, tracing its movement across the Atlantic and into the post-war world.

We begin with American modernism before 1945, then consider the drama of Abstract Expressionism, the anxieties of Europe after the Second World War, and the cool seductions of popular culture, photography, optical effects and minimal forms.

Later sessions explore the body, performance, feminist art, computer art, BritArt and the contested question of what art has become now.

This is a course about changing centres of power, new technologies, shifting audiences and the repeated return of the question: can art still surprise us?

The sessions are designed to be accessible and engaging, encouraging lively discussion and debate on the artworks and themes presented.

All welcome; no previous experience of art or art history is necessary.

Course term dates

•  Spring (Lent) Term: week beginning 11 January 2027 until week ending 19 March 2027

Any questions?

For course content enquiries: Contact the course tutor, Dr Michael Paraskos, at m.paraskos@imperial.ac.uk

For enrolment and booking enquiries: Contact Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ certificates

This course has no exams or assessments, so you can focus on enjoying your learning. Regular attendance may also lead to the award of an 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ attendance certificate. (T&Cs apply).