Art Survey at the Art Institute of Chicago: Ancient to PreModern

This course examines seminal works in the Art Institute of Chicago collection. Classes meet in the galleries and observe, discuss, and find connections between works in different points of history. Students learn how to analyze a work of art and gain insights into the context of specific periods, the lives of the artists, and the range of expression as a basis for further inquiry. This course begins with Ancient Greece and Rome. It continues through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the 17th and 18th-century Romantic periods, ending with the late 19th century and the dawn of Impressionism. Such renowned artists as El Greco, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Turner are included, along with lesser-known artists. This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue. 

Note: Art Survey at the AIC: Ancient to PreModern fulfills the Art History requirement for the Adult Continuing Education noncredit Drawing and Painting certificates.

This class is taught by Joseph Cunniff.

No class on March 20th

Registration closes at 11:59 pm on Friday, February 6th, 2026

Sign up for the waitlist and we will contact you if a spot opens!