Welcome to Modern Art & Ideas.

Artists respond to and participate in the intellectual, social, and cultural contexts of their time. By studying modern and contemporary art we create a dialogue between the established and the experimental, the past and the present, making connections that bring a greater sense of depth and understanding of the issues and ideas that shape our world.

This course is designed for anyone who would like to learn more about modern and contemporary art and develop skills for closer looking. No prior knowledge of art history is required.

Over five weeks, you will look at art through a variety of themes: Places & Spaces, Art & Identity, Transforming Everyday Objects, and Art & Society. Each week kicks off with a video that connects works of art from The Museum of Modern Art’s collection to the theme. You’ll hear audio interviews with artists, designers, and curators and learn more about selected works in the readings and additional resources.