IB History of Art (Standard Level)
History of Art is far more than an academic sixth form subject – it is a journey through the creative legacy of humankind. By studying painting, sculpture, and architecture, students explore how societies express their values, beliefs, and ambitions through art. Each artwork tells a story – of innovation, politics, faith, and identity – helping us understand how cultures evolve and how creativity shapes our world. A truly interdisciplinary subject, History of Art weaves together Art, History, Literature, Philosophy, Theology, and Sociology. It nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness while developing strong analytical and communication skills – qualities that serve students well at university and beyond. Whether you are interested in architecture, design, politics, journalism, or the creative industries, History of Art gives you the intellectual foundation to question, interpret, and appreciate the visual world around you.
Course Overview
Topic One: The Art of the Renaissance (c.1400–c.1550 CE)
Explore the most influential period in Western art, when humanism, science, and classical ideals combined to transform artistic practice. Study masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and others who revolutionised realism, proportion, and perspective, blending ancient inspiration with groundbreaking innovation.
Topic Two: Rococo to Realism (c.1720–c.1860 CE)
Investigate how artists responded to the industrial and political revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries. From the opulence of Rococo to the social critique of Realism, explore how shifts in power, wealth, and ideology reshaped art – and how artists began to challenge, satirise, and reflect the rapidly changing modern world.
Internal Assessment (Comparative Investigation)
Your coursework allows you to focus on a topic that genuinely inspires you. You will carry out a visual and contextual comparison between two artworks, artists, or movements from different cultures or periods – developing your ability to research, analyse, and form independent arguments.
Assessment
• Internal Assessment (Comparative Investigation): 30%
• External Examinations: 70%
• Assessment includes visual analysis, contextual study, and essay-based interpretation
Skills You’ll Develop
• Advanced visual literacy and analytical precision
• Cross-cultural understanding and global awareness
• Structured essay writing and argument formulation
• Independent research and academic rigour
These skills provide an excellent foundation for higher study and professional careers across multiple disciplines.
Enrichment Opportunities
- A residential trip to Paris in the Michaelmas Term, including visits to the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Pompidou Centre, and Musée Rodin
- Lectures from leading art historians such as Andrew Graham-Dixon, Dr James Fox, and Dr Janina Ramirez
- Opportunities to participate in the student-led Art History Society for talks, discussions, and debates
Requirements
• Grade 7 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature
• A readiness to read widely, think independently, and visit galleries and museums
Future Pathways
IB History of Art is an internationally respected subject, valued for its intellectual breadth and academic depth. OWs often continue to top universities, including: University of Cambridge, The Courtauld Institute of Art, UCL, Edinburgh, and Leeds.
The subject prepares students for careers in: Museums and Galleries, Architecture and Design, Journalism and Publishing, Marketing and Advertising, Heritage and Conservation, Academia and Research, Creative Industries
IB History of Art is a global exploration of ideas, culture, and creativity. It challenges students to look closely, think deeply, and connect art with history and humanity. For those who want to understand how images shape the world, it is one of the most enriching and rigorous courses you can study.
Contact
For more information, please contact: spw@wellingtoncollege.org.uk