Out of Hours

Context: The Courtauld

Introduction
Activity 1: The Gallery Environment

Gather at the main entrance. Provide very general information - how old the gallery is, who owns it, brief history. Verbally compare the entrances of both institutions - for example at the Courtauld the steep, disorientating, ascending staircase is interesting in relation to the Turbine hall's large, open, descending slope.

Have a short, silent walk-through the gallery spaces. Ask pupils to mentally note their observations about atmosphere, style, sound etc.

Gather together to share these observations. How does this context feel and why? What effect does this have upon how we look at the artworks?

Discuss types/genres of artworks here, how they are displayed in the room, and the theme of the room. Compare this, verbally, to Tate's arrangement of artworks... if it were at Tate, where would this artwork be?

Location: The Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House. (This session could be adapted for use at your local galleries or museums)

Activity Images

Activity Resources

Assignment Brief - Courtauld