The History of Art department at JAGS is a small but enthusiastic department. It is responsible for teaching the A level course in the subject and it also contributes to the Year 7 “Civilisation “ carousel with a course on “Looking at Works of Art”.

All courses aim to develop a love and appreciation of paintings, sculpture and architecture and an awareness and understanding of the production of these works within their historical, political and cultural contexts. Observation, analysis and discussion are encouraged.  Opportunities are provided for girls to pursue their own interests in particular artists, movements and periods as well as for engaging with art historical issues and critical debates.

First hand experience of works of art is actively encouraged. Frequent visits are made to the nearby London galleries including Tate Britain, Tate Modern, National Gallery, Royal Academy and British Museum as well as Dulwich Picture Gallery, with whom we have strong links.

We regularly travel abroad.  Places visited have included Paris, Venice, Florence, Athens, Barcelona and this year we spent 5 days in New York, visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frick Collection and MOMA.

The department also organises the JAGS Annual History of Art lecture for girls, staff, parents and friends which is held at the Dulwich Picture Gallery. The subjects of these lectures are connected to current or forthcoming exhibitions in London and are given by the curators from the respective galleries. Recent speakers have given talks on “Turner,  Monet,  Whistler ” (Tate Britain), “El Greco” (National Gallery),  “Renoir Landscapes" (National Gallery).