Pillars of the Collection

About the Class

The Barnes is home to iconic paintings by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso—artists often referred to as the pillars of our collection. But major works by artists like Veronese, Manet, and Van Gogh also hang in our storied galleries. In this one-day workshop, we’ll spend time in the galleries looking closely at renowned paintings by all these European artists, discussing their aesthetic qualities to better understand their role in the history of art and in Dr. Barnes’s educational philosophy. We will also devote attention to one of Dr. Barnes’s most beloved objects, a late 19th-century Baule door, and explore why African art was central to the foundation’s mission. This workshop is ideal for both newcomers and seasoned Barnes students.

Paintings to be discussed include Veronese’s Baptism of Christ, Manet’s Laundry, Van Gogh’s The Smoker, Cézanne’s The Card Players, Matisse’s Joy of Life, Picasso’s Composition: The Peasants, and Renoir’s After the Bath.

Capacity: 25

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.

See all classes.

Barnes Method

Barnes Method courses follow the teachings of Albert Barnes and Violette de Mazia. Classes focus on rigorous formal analysis and direct visual engagement with works of art. In this method, close looking at art helps build critical-thinking skills that can be carried beyond the gallery walls.

What Our Students Say

“The instructor was superb. Her level of expertise, along with enthusiasm for the subject, made the class what it was.” Close-Looking Immersion: Picasso’s “Violin, Sheet Music, and Bottle” with Naina Saligram

“Dr. Boyd’s knowledge, passion, and openness made her an excellent instructor for this course. It was well structured and beautifully taught!” Horace Pippin’s Modernism with Alison Boyd

“Dr. Galvez is a wonderful teacher—knowledgeable, knows how to teach the concepts, gives examples, explains concepts and ways of considering them while looking at a painting. He is open to questions and receives them with patience.” Chromophilia: Modern Art and the Re-Invention of Color with Paul Galvez

“Kaelin Jewell is amazing. She is engaging and super knowledgeable, and she clearly enjoys teaching.” Heaven on Earth: The Art of the Byzantine Empire with Kaelin Jewell

“The best class to understand the elements of art. The instructor’s expertise and warmth, along with the excellent discussions with my classmates, made it a truly wonderful experience.” The Elements of Art with Bill Perthes