Class dates: Tuesdays, November 3, 17, 24, December 8, 15   (5 weeks) 

Class time: 10:00 am to 11:30 am

Location: Online (via Zoom)

We will chronologically explore the paintings of artists in Europe and America from the last quarter of the 19th century. We’ll compare and contrast Academic artists such as Gerome and Bouguereau and Impressionist paintings, the latter from France, Spain, and America, including the expatriates Whistler, Sargent, and Cassatt. Our examination will include the 8 Impressionist Exhibitions as well as the Universal Expositions held between 1876 and 1904. The work of Eakins and Homer will be compared with the later works of the American Impressionists. We will close our exploration with the avant guard works of artists such as Georges Rouault and Henri Matise shown at the early Salon d'Automne exhibitions in the early 20th century.

Instructor: Martha Chiarchiaro  has brought history to life through the art of the times for more than 30 years. She received her Master’s degree in the History of Art from Williams College and teaches a variety of art history courses at the Worcester Art Museum and other local cultural organizations. Her specialty courses related to specific periods, artists, and activities provide a more in-depth look at the life and times of the people who are part of the exploration. Martha is fascinated by American history and the role of American artists in portraying the Revolutionary War.