The Art of Photography: From the Beginnings to Now

Tuesdays, 12 October–14 December. No half term.
18.30–20.30

Investigate the key innovators and ideas which have shaped the development of photography as a medium for creative expression since 1839. V&A Photography Curators with an intimate knowledge of the collection will explain various ways to appreciate photography as an art and discuss how photographs are presented and collected, from the page to the gallery wall. Explore the invention and early reception of photography and its many uses, as well as its relationship to major art movements such as the Pre-Raphaelites and Surrealism. Consider themes such as family photographs, fashion, architecture, still-life, staged photography and landscape. Explore the work of classic photographers including William Henry Fox Talbot, Julia Margaret Cameron, Alfred Steiglitz, Bill Brandt, Man Ray, Ansel Adams and Cartier-Bresson, as well as contemporary photography from the 1970s onwards by Bechers, William Eggleston, Cindy Sherman, Thomas Struth and Gregory Crewdson. You will be given an introduction to the main photographic processes and techniques and have the opportunity to study from original prints.The first evening includes exclusive entry to a private view of the Shadow Catchers exhibition at the V&A.

Led by Martin Barnes, Senior Curator, Photographs, V&A, Susanna Brown, Curator, Photographs, V&A & Marta Weiss, Curator, Photographs, V&A.

£300, £240 concessions
To book call +44 (0)20 7942 2211