Peter Paul Rubens: Power Player of the High Baroque

About the Class

Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640) was a leading figure of the 17th-century Baroque era and worked with some of Europe’s most powerful patrons. Best known for monumental paintings, saturated colors, and dynamic compositions, Rubens inspired Dr. Albert Barnes to purchase three of his works.

In this four-session online course, we’ll explore what Dr. Barnes admired in Rubens while getting to know the artist on his own terms. Trained in Italy and based in Belgium, Rubens navigated complex political and religious environments to become one of the most sought-after artists of his time

In this course, we’ll study Rubens’s paintings, portraits, tapestries, and other works while exploring the political, religious, and cultural world in which he worked. Along the way, we’ll consider the energy, drama, color, and remarkable range that made Rubens a defining figure of Baroque art—and a favorite of Dr. Barnes.

The class is online-only. More about online classes.

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Barnes classes will:

• Sharpen your observational and critical thinking skills.
• Improve your ability to communicate about art.
• Deepen your appreciation for cultures and histories outside your own.

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What Our Students Say

“The instructor was not only knowledgeable but so accessible, and such an inviting presence. She provided great reading to supplement the course.” —Mary Cassatt: Art, Identity, and Independence with Larissa Bailiff

“Pierre brings the art alive with her inside stories and images and how she interacts with the students. She is always able to answer and follow up with more information at the next class.” —Exhibiting Modernism: From the Salon to the Avant-Garde with Caterina Pierre

“Alison Boyd was engaging and effective during the online instruction, and she offered well-selected background materials for further reading.” —Aaron Douglas from Harlem to Philly with Alison Boyd