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.

This course takes place in the National Museum of Scotland, learners should meet at the information desk in the museum. Learners will be required to move between exhibits. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible are there will be portable seats available for learners who would like access to seating as they move around.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

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 aged 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.

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.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course is due to start, unless the course is full or cancelled.