The History and Culture of Colour

Based at the National Museum of Scotland, explore artifacts in the museum’s remarkable collections and uncover stories linking the history of colour with culture, society, and art.

Focusing on specific colours, you will explore their histories and examine the impact these colours have had, and continue to have, on the cultures of their origins, and the world as a whole. Through gallery-based teaching, you will trace the effects of colour on culture and society throughout history and into the present day.

Please note that you will be required to move between exhibits at the National Museum. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible.

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Compare and analyse the history of various colours whilst gaining an understanding of their cultural significances;
• Develop an understanding of colour theory and discuss it using appropriate terminology;
• Appreciate the diverse cultural meanings and significance of colour, which can be used to inform an art practice or academic study.

No prior knowledge is required, making this course accessible to all with an interest in art history.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010. Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

The course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.

Please note that you will be required to move between exhibits at the National Museum. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.