Have you ever wanted to know more about the wide-ranging permanent collections of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)? How can we begin to make sense of the various styles, techniques and subjects presented? The Discovering Art series at the Thomas More Institute offers guidance on appreciating the works on display through lectures and museum visits, with this course focusing on religious and secular art in Quebec.
In this art history lecture course, we will consider Quebec art in two mediums: painting and sculpture. Our first lecture will study the overwhelming impact of religion on the history of painting in Quebec. When looking at religious works in the province, it is important to realize that much of what was created during the 18th and 19th centuries reflects the views of the more conservative elements of the Church. Our second lecture will explore sculpture beyond the religious. Works by artists such as Laliberté, Archambault, and Steinman will provide a solid chronological survey of the different styles of sculpture adopted by artists. We will consider some of the changes that have occurred over time, and the increasing complexity of contemporary work.
The week following each lecture, we will meet at the MMFA to engage directly with the art discussed. The structure of the course will thus be as follows:
Class 1 : In-person lecture at the Thomas More Institute
Class 2 : Visit to the MMFA
Class 3 : In-person lecture at the Thomas More Institute
Class 4 : Visit to the MMFA
Standard Tuition: $133.00
New Participant Tuition: $133.00
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: 3405 Atwater Ave
Instructor: Anita Grants
First session: September 16 2026
Course length: 4 weeks
Degree credit: 0
Maximum number of participants: 15
Please note that the Thomas More Institute does not allow participants to audit courses for free.
About the Thomas More Institute: The Thomas More Institute has been providing adults with stimulating lifelong learning opportunities in Montreal since 1945. A secular and non-profit academic institution, TMI offers an ever-evolving choice of university-level courses in the liberal arts, including discussion-based courses, lecture-style courses, writing workshops, and more. Our courses are held in small groups, offering an alternative learning environment to that of traditional university courses. You can take individual courses that interest you, or work toward a structured bachelor of arts degree or comprehensive certificate that involve additional coursework. Share Your Curiosity at TMI!
About course fees: all prices displayed include Tuition and the Administrative fee.
Leaders of another course, and anyone else wishing to register by phone, should call (514) 935-9585 to register.