A treasury of resources
ThereÕs no substitute for looking at the real objects and we take full advantage of CambridgeÕs outstanding resources, including the Fitzwilliam Museum and its picture conservation department, KettleÕs Yard and the CollegesÕ art collections.
The DepartmentÕs comprehensive library houses a rich collection of books, and you have access to the University Library and the Fitzwilliam MuseumÕs reference library (among others) as well. During vacations, travel is encouraged and College financial support is usually available (see individual College websites for details); we also organise study outings.
Preparation
We advise that you visit museums, exhibitions and buildings, such as churches or country houses, and take descriptive notes or sketches of what you see. Try to analyse the effect works of art or architecture have on you.
If you're thinking of applying to study History of Art, you may like to read the following books:
E H Gombrich The Story of Art
H Honour and J Fleming A World History of Art
D Watkin A History of Western Architecture
After Cambridge
Our graduates are well-equipped for employment in museums and art galleries, agencies for the care and conservation of monuments and heritage management, fine art dealing, publishing, advertising and the visual media, as well as for teaching.Our prominent graduates include the artists Antony Gormley and Marc Quinn; the model and actress Lily Cole; Dr Philip Rylands, Director of the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice; Dr Charles Saumarez Smith CBE, Chief Executive of the Royal Academy in London; Sir Nicholas Serota, former Director of the Tate Gallery and now Chairman of the Arts Council; and the Hon James Stourton, former Chairman of SothebyÕs UK.
