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Join broadcaster and author Leslie Primo for an engaging evening journey through the rich story of Western European art, from the ideals of classical antiquity to the expressive brilliance of late Victorian painting and Impressionism.

Designed especially for adult learners, this welcoming course explores the lives of great artists, the cultural worlds in which they worked, and the lasting influence of their ideas and images. Moving in a clear chronological sequence across different regions of Europe, we will encounter defining figures such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo, alongside the wider movements that shaped artistic change.

Along the way, we will look closely at enduring themes—from mythological subjects such as Venus and Cupid to powerful religious imagery of saints and sinners—while considering how shifting historical and social contexts transformed the meaning and purpose of art between the Byzantine, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Victorian periods.

The course includes two guided visits, one per term, to the National Gallery offering the chance to see remarkable works of art at first hand and to deepen the insights gained in the 18 classroom sessions. The dates for the visits are Wednesday 16 December 2026 and Friday 19 March 2027, respectively. Further details will be provided in class nearer the time.

No prior knowledge is required—only curiosity, enthusiasm, and a love of art.

Course term dates

•  Autumn Term: week beginning 19 October 2026 until week ending 18 December 2026

•  Spring Term: week beginning 4 January 2027 until week ending 19 March 2027

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial 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 Imperial attendance certificate. (T&Cs apply).