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Study art history at the Barnes, a leader in art education since 1925. Come learn in our galleries, or take classes online using our immersive, state-of-the-art platform that brings you closer to the work than ever before.

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These traditional courses, derived from the teachings of Albert Barnes and Violette de Mazia, focus on 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 Barnes.

The Art of Looking: An Introduction to the Barnes Method
Barnes Method / On Demand

The Art of Looking: An Introduction to the Barnes Method

Ongoing

This interactive online course will teach you the basics of the Barnes Method of studying art, at your own pace.

The Art of Display: Exploring the Barnes Ensembles
Barnes Method / On Demand

The Art of Display: Exploring the Barnes Ensembles

Ongoing

Uncover connections hidden in plain sight by studying Dr. Barnes’s enigmatic displays of art at your own pace.

Close-Looking Immersion: Persian Manuscript <i>Rustam Lifts Qanun from His Horse</i>
Online / Barnes Method

Close-Looking Immersion: Persian Manuscript Rustam Lifts Qanun from His Horse

Wednesday, November 12, 6 – 7pm

Immerse yourself in a tiny 16th-century Persian manuscript from the Barnes collection. Instructor: Naina Saligram

Pillars of the Collection
On-Site / Barnes Method

Pillars of the Collection

Wednesday, December 3, 10am – 4pm

Spend the day exploring iconic works in the Barnes collection and the artists that helped shape Dr. Barnes’s vision. Instructor: Naina Saligram

Discovering Daumier’s <i>The Ribalds</i>
Workshops / On-Site / Barnes Method

Discovering Daumier’s The Ribalds

Wednesday, December 10, 2 – 4pm

This immersive workshop is an opportunity to study and discuss an individual work in the Barnes galleries. Instructor: William Perthes

Close-Looking Immersion: Cézanne’s <i>Portrait of a Woman</i>
Online / Barnes Method

Close-Looking Immersion: Cézanne’s Portrait of a Woman

Wednesday, December 10, 6 – 7pm

Spend an hour with Cézanne’s haunting Portrait of a Woman. Instructor: William Perthes