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How To Read A Painting
Online course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
This course takes you on a journey through some of the most iconic paintings in history. Learn how to analyse a painting’s composition, understand symbolism and read the techniques artists use to convey messages. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a newcomer, this online art history course will enhance your appreciation and understanding of visual art, drawing on examples from the V&A's outstanding collection.
From the moment you enrol on a V&A on-demand course, you get 12 months' access to every stunning video lecture to rewatch as often as you like, plus additional learning materials, yours to keep. Find out more: https://www.vandacourses.com/faqs
Already purchased the course? Sign back in to access it.
From the moment you enrol on a V&A on-demand course, you get 12 months' access to every stunning video lecture to rewatch as often as you like, plus additional learning materials, yours to keep. Find out more: https://www.vandacourses.com/faqs
Already purchased the course? Sign back in to access it.
Course leader
Dr Kathy McLauchlan
Dr Kathy McLauchlan is an art historian specialising in French painting and the academic tradition. She completed an MA in 19th century painting and a PhD on the work of art students at the French Academy in Rome at the Courtauld Institute, University of London. Kathy has worked the Open University, Birkbeck College, NADFAS and Morley College.
I am not able to attend the museum as often as I would like so I thoroughly enjoyed and thank you for bringing some of the art to my living room. V&A Academy learner
Course overview
This course covers:
- How composition and colour lead the eye and reveal a story
- How composition and colour lead the eye and reveal a story
- Changing views of ideal beauty, illustrated by the female nude
- The role of sketches and working outdoors in landscape painting
- How artists convey space and movement, placing the viewer in the scene
- Should artworks be a subjective or objective depiction?
- Can portraits act as propaganda?
- Does how a painting is hung affect how we engage with it?
- How art materials can influence its value and the artist’s career
- What paintings of the macabre tell us about historic tastes, and our own
V&A on-demand gives you instant access to beautiful courses
Our courses bring the rigour of the V&A's experts together with the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits you. The simple and intuitive platform lets you focus on the joy of learning something new, while your support powers the V&A's vital work.
Enrol now
Online course: How To Read A Painting
27 September 2026 - 12 November 2026
£45.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
