March 29, 2024
Updated March 31, 2025
18 minute read
Art Historian: A Career Guide
Art history is the academic study of art objects in their historical development and stylistic contexts. This includes analyzing painting, sculpture, architecture, decorative arts, photography, printmaking, installation, performance, and digital art. It's a field dedicated to understanding how, why, and by whom art was made, and what it meant to its original audiences and subsequent viewers across time.
Working as an art historian can be deeply rewarding. You might spend your days researching the hidden meanings in a Renaissance masterpiece, authenticating a newly discovered artifact, or curating an exhibition that brings historical narratives to life for the public. The thrill of discovery, the intellectual challenge of interpretation, and the opportunity to share profound cultural insights make this a compelling path for those passionate about visual culture and history.
Introduction to Art History as a Discipline
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Reading list
We've selected some books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Art historian.
Provides a global perspective on the history of art. It must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the subject.
Comprehensive and engaging introduction to the field of museum studies. It explores the history of museums, the different types of museums, and the various roles that museums play in society. The book also addresses some of the ethical and social issues facing museums today.
Considers the ethical frameworks that museum practitioners will encounter in their professional lives. It examines the ethical issues that arise in the acquisition, care, and display of collections.
Considers the ethical dilemmas faced by museum curators when they put together exhibits. It explores the issues of representation, bias, and censorship in the museum context.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Islamic art, from the early caliphates to the present day. It is written by a leading scholar in the field and is known for its high quality and scholarship.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the complex question of what constitutes contemporary art. Terry Smith examines the various forces and individuals who shape its definition, including artists, critics, curators, and the market. It's an excellent starting point for gaining a broad understanding of the field and is often used in academic settings.
This comprehensive collection of translated ancient literary sources related to Greek art. It is an invaluable reference tool for students and scholars, providing direct access to historical perspectives on sculpture, painting, architecture, and decorative arts. It is essential for in-depth research and understanding how the ancients viewed their own art.
A comprehensive two-volume set examining large-scale Greek sculpture from the Dark Ages to the Roman period. Stewart places sculpture within its social and political context, discussing sculptors, workshops, and patronage. This detailed work is ideal for those wishing to deepen their understanding specifically of Greek sculpture and significant scholarly resource.
Explores the role of museums in providing a public space for dialogue and debate. It examines the ways in which museums can be used to promote social change and community engagement.
This classic book provides a detailed overview of the Renaissance in Italy. It must-read for anyone interested in this period of history.
Examines the role of objects in museum studies. It explores the ways in which objects can be used to tell stories, convey meaning, and shape our understanding of the world.
Explores key themes and ideas prevalent in contemporary art since 1980. It helps to organize the diverse landscape of contemporary art into understandable categories, making it easier to grasp the motivations and subjects artists engage with. It is often used as a textbook and is highly relevant for understanding the core concerns of contemporary artists.
Presents 50 short essays discussing museums, focusing on their significance for British national identity. They consider issues of heritage, community, and social justice.
Considers how museums will survive and adapt to the challenges of the 21st century. It examines the role of museums in fostering social inclusion and intercultural dialogue in an increasingly globalized world.
A classic work on the Impressionist movement, featuring detailed discussions of the major artists, their techniques, and the impact of their work on the development of modern art. Rewald, a renowned art historian, provides a wealth of insights into this groundbreaking movement.
This lavishly illustrated book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of art from the prehistoric era to the present day. It features over 5,000 works of art from around the world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the visual arts, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and photography. It is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to readers of all levels.
Provides a broad overview of Western art from the ancient world to the present day. Kemp, a leading art historian, offers a comprehensive and accessible survey of the major movements, artists, and works of art.
Provides a comprehensive and accessible survey of world art from the ancient world to the present day. Kleiner, a leading art historian, offers a detailed and visually engaging overview of the major movements, artists, and works of art.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of art from the prehistoric era to the present day, covering major art movements, styles, and artists. It is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to readers of all levels.
Explores the role of museums in promoting social justice. It examines the ways in which museums can be used to raise awareness of social issues and promote change.
A groundbreaking work on Abstract Expressionism, introducing the movement's major artists, their techniques, and the impact of their work on the development of post-war art. Rosenberg, a leading art critic, provides a compelling and insightful analysis of this influential movement.
Focuses on different approaches to interpreting Greek art, moving beyond simple description to explore meaning and context. It is valuable for developing critical thinking skills and deepening understanding of the complexities of Greek art. Suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students.
Focuses on socially engaged art, examining practices that prioritize dialogue and interaction within communities. Given the course mentions of activism and social movements, Kester's work provides a critical framework for understanding this important area of contemporary art. It's highly relevant for those interested in the social and political dimensions of contemporary art.
Rosalind Krauss highly influential art historian and critic. This collection of essays includes her seminal text "Sculpture in the Expanded Field," which redefined how we understand sculptural practice in the late 20th century. is essential for a deeper theoretical understanding of the shifts in art from modernism to postmodernism.
Offers a comprehensive survey of contemporary art from a global perspective, with a particular focus on art from Africa and the diaspora. Okwui Enwezor was a highly respected curator and scholar, making thvaluable resource for understanding the increasingly global nature of contemporary art. It provides a broader geographical scope than many other surveys.
Provides an interpretive history of Greek art during the Hellenistic period. Pollitt explores how the art of this era reflects the cultural experience and aspirations of the time, highlighting its heterogeneity and individualism. It is valuable for those seeking to deepen their understanding of a specific, influential period in Greek art history.
In this book, Hal Foster examines the relationship between contemporary art, criticism, and the state of emergency. It offers a critical perspective on recent developments in art and its engagement with contemporary social and political issues. It's a valuable resource for understanding current critical discourse.
Arthur Danto's provocative work argues for a shift in the trajectory of art history with the advent of contemporary art. is crucial for understanding the philosophical underpinnings of contemporary art and how it diverges from previous art historical narratives. It is considered a classic text that provides a deep theoretical understanding.
This comprehensive sourcebook provides a collection of primary texts by artists, critics, and theorists. It's an invaluable resource for accessing original writings and manifestos that have shaped contemporary art discourse. is excellent for in-depth research and understanding the artists' perspectives firsthand.
Sarah Thornton provides an ethnographic look at the different subcultures that constitute the contemporary art world, from auctions to art schools and biennials. offers a fascinating and accessible insight into the social and economic structures surrounding contemporary art. It's a great read for understanding the ecosystem in which contemporary art operates.
Hans Belting examines contemporary art within a global context, moving beyond a purely Western-centric view. is valuable for understanding the diverse perspectives and influences shaping contemporary art worldwide. It offers a broader, more inclusive understanding of the field.
Practical guide to the management of museums. It covers all aspects of museum operations, from planning and budgeting to marketing and public relations.
This textbook comprehensive introduction to the history of art, covering major art movements, styles, and artists from around the world. It is well-organized and provides clear and concise explanations of complex concepts.
As a comprehensive survey of art history, this book includes substantial sections on Greek art, placing it within a global context. It widely used textbook in introductory art history courses and is valuable for providing foundational knowledge. While not solely focused on Greek art, its breadth and accessible writing make it a good starting point for a broad understanding.
Spivey offers a narrative history of Greek art, presenting it within its broader historical and cultural context. is accessible and engaging, providing a good overview for those seeking a historical perspective on the subject.
This companion offers a collection of essays covering various aspects of Greek art, from its origins to its reception. It provides a good overview of the field and introduces readers to different scholarly perspectives. Useful for undergraduates and graduate students seeking a broader understanding of the subject's scope.
A concise yet comprehensive overview of the Italian Renaissance, covering its art, literature, philosophy, and science. Plumb, a leading historian, offers a balanced and insightful perspective on this transformative period in European history.
A seminal work on Romanticism, exploring its origins, key ideas, and impact on literature, art, and music. Berlin, a renowned philosopher and historian, provides a thought-provoking analysis of this influential movement.
A comprehensive survey of Conceptual Art, covering its origins, major artists, and impact on the development of contemporary art. Alberro, a leading art historian, provides a nuanced and thought-provoking analysis of this influential movement.
Encourages readers to engage critically with Greek art and consider different ways of interpreting it. It moves beyond a purely chronological survey to explore themes and approaches to understanding Greek art. It is valuable for developing analytical skills.
Examines how Roman culture received and interpreted Greek art, contributing to the construction of classical heritage. It explores the ongoing influence and adaptation of Greek artistic traditions. This is relevant for understanding the broader impact and reception of Greek art throughout history.
Explores the reception of ancient Greek art in the modern era through the work of sculptor Auguste Rodin. It delves into how Greek art influenced later artists and highlights the ongoing relevance of classical forms. This is valuable for understanding contemporary topics related to the legacy and reception of Greek art.
A seminal work on Minimalism, exploring its origins, key ideas, and impact on the development of contemporary art. O'Doherty, a leading art critic, provides a thought-provoking and insightful analysis of this influential movement.
Part of the esteemed 'World of Art' series, this book offers a concise yet informative overview of contemporary art. It's a good starting point for beginners, providing a well-illustrated introduction to key artists, movements, and themes. It serves as a reliable and accessible guide to the subject.
A concise and accessible introduction to Classical art, including Greek art. provides a brief overview of key themes and periods, making it a good starting point for beginners or as a quick review. It offers a scholarly yet engaging perspective.
This recent publication highlights the significant use of threads and textiles in contemporary art. It showcases a wide range of artists working with these materials, demonstrating the diverse approaches and conceptual possibilities within this area. It's a great resource for exploring a specific and increasingly prominent medium in contemporary art. Published within the last five years, it reflects current trends.
While broader than just art, this book provides essential archaeological context for understanding Greek art. It covers the material culture and archaeological sites related to Greek civilization. It is valuable for students interested in the archaeological foundations of Greek art studies.
Features a collection of significant Greek sculptures with accompanying analysis. It is useful for visual learning and gaining familiarity with key examples of Greek sculptural art. It can serve as a supplementary resource for courses or individual study.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/career/zoez1o/art
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