A Beginner's Guide to Contemporary Art with Ben Street

The course is taught by Ben Street. Ben is a lecturer and educator at various galleries including the National Gallery, Tate Modern and Tate Britain. He is a freelance curator and writer on contemporary art, and is the author of a number of catalogue essays for museums and galleries. Ben is a former lecturer at the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim Museum, New York, and taught A-level Art History in London for five years.

This is a five-week overview of contemporary art in London, looking at private collections, commercial galleries, artist's studios, museum and exhibition spaces. No previous experience or knowledge is necessary, but open-mindedness and a spirit of curiosity are essential. The course is aimed at those who find contemporary art baffling, enervating, intriguing or forbidding, and will be taught in an accessible, engaging way, while taking in the vast range of locations in which to experience art in London.

Dates for future course to be announced

The cost is £150 per person, excluding travel costs. Anyone over 18 is welcome to attend. Places will be allotted on a first-come first serve basis.


The Art World Unpacked

In this intensive, informative and enjoyable week-long course, participants will gain an insight into the workings of the contemporary art world from a number of perspectives. Meeting artists, gallery owners, and curators, and visiting a range of different spaces - from large-scale galleries to hidden gems of the East End to a working artist's studio - you'll have first-hand access to the complex and fascinating world of contemporary art.

The course will take place from the 29 July - 2 August 2013.

The cost is £150 per person, excluding travel costs. Places will be allotted on a first-come first serve basis.

Here is what previous participants have said:

"The course was brilliant...the range of visits surpassed my expectations. The information was never overwhelming but clear, precise and relevant."

"I found each individual tour effortlessly engaging in thought-provoking detail. Ben's enlightening and succinct interaction brings the whole series together with fascinating clarity."

"...a truly eye-opening experience; gaining insight into the flourishing art scenes of the West End, and having access to first hand knowledge from numerous curators was an absolute treat..."

"Ben thoughtfully plans his sessions in advance, and delivers them with high energy. Clearly an expert in his field. Very considerate of the group, and very approachable."

"The beginner's guide is really an insider's guide. It was enlightening and enjoyable. Ben is generous with his knowledge and welcomes questions and discussions. I learnt and saw much. Would recommend it to everyone."

For more information and to book your place on the course please contact admin@saatchigallery.com.

To read more about Ben Street click here.