Nau mai, haere mai!

Art History and Theory courses increase enjoyment of art by increasing understanding and training you in observation thinking and writing.

There are great career opportunities for our graduates, many of whom have been successful in gaining positions in the art world. They have secured jobs in universities, polytechnics, schools, museums and libraries, as well as in journalism, marketing, tourism and heritage conservation. Whatever your background and whatever your career aims, we know that the time you spend studying Art History and Theory at Canterbury will prove to be a positive and rewarding experience.

Richard Bullen
Department Co-ordinator

Why study Art History and Theory?

Art History and Theory are actually separate, though related subjects. Students may specialise in one of these or undertake a mixture of the two as part of their degree. They involve the study of visual culture and, in particular but not exclusively, 'fine art' images and objects. You will study various media including painting and drawing, architecture, sculpture, photography and printmaking, ceramics, furniture and weaving. Also, art institutions and practices, such as collecting, patronage, art education, art criticism and iconography are all considered.

Vincent Van Gogh
The night cafe, 1888.

Our courses reflect your lecturers' specialisations that include European art and other indigenous art, contemporary art, American art, East Asian art, Māori art, and architectural history. Some of the lecturers also specialise in subjects beyond Art History and Theory such as literature, anthropology, cultural studies, and aesthetics.

Career Opportunities