Course overview

Over the last twenty years, research and exhibitions have brought to our attention a great number of Victorian women artists. From Emily Mary Osborn and Lady Butler (aka Elizabeth Thompson) to Evelyn De Morgan, 19th century London did not lack great women artists. They lived in a society that globally remained hostile to independent career women. We will see how they trained, what they painted and his which style, and how they balanced the pressure of social norms and their personal ambition.

Course description

This session on women Victorian artists is divided in three parts, with two short comfort breaks. We will first explore the issue of training and art schools for women in 19th century-London. As we learn about places where women could learn the codes of painting, we will discuss the issue of the life class and the study and representation of the nude. Why was it so difficult to let women paint female and male nudes? How did women artists circumvent such a ban? In the second part, we will focus on the life and art of Elizabeth Thompson, also known as Lady Butler. She was a Victorian painter, who specialised in battle paintings. As we will see, this choice of subject matter was rather unusual for a woman, far from flower paintings and the landscape. Yet, Lady Butler made a name for herself and gained the respect of many. She also brought a singular note to these historical scenes. In the third and last part, you will discover and discuss the works of several other contemporary women artists, such as Emily Mary Osborn, Louise Jopling, Anna Lea Merritt, Emily Sargent, Evelyn De Morgan, and many more.

What financial support is available?

We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.

What other support is available?

All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.

Share this page:

Lady giving a thumbs up to her tablet as she watches a ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ member lecture
Image overlay triangle

Become a ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ member today

For just £15 per year, you can access many great benefits, including our award-winning weekly member lectures.

Need more information?

Need help? Complete our form and our friendly Support Services team will be back in touch.

Course contact
I am most interested in (tick all that apply)

How do we use the information we gather from you?
Please see our privacy policy.