A journey through Middle Eastern art

Join Christie’s three-day intensive introducing modern and contemporary art from across the Middle East through lively lectures, excursions and curator tours.

Modern & Contemporary Middle Eastern Art
London Summer Intensive

Over three tightly-paced days this introductory course opens the door to Middle Eastern art, anchored by an exclusive, curator-led tour of Marwan: A Soul in Exile. Lectures explore Arab modernism and today’s contemporary practices, as well as looking at how migration and displacement can reshape artistic language. Afternoons move into the city – where participants will meet curators and explore London’s Middle Eastern art scene. Expert guest speakers including curator Nada Shabuot, Rachael Jarvis of Mosaic Rooms, and academic Hamid Keshmirshekan provide insight into topics such as artistic practice, institutional engagement and exhibition development.

The programme opens with a concise art-historical grounding and will develop through first-hand encounters, tackling questions of identity, memory and political change. Expect close-looking and lively discussion throughought this engaging programme. Group size is kept small to ensure an interactive experience.

The London Summer Intensive includes a group dinner to get to know your peers better and turn introductions into enduring connections.
  • 21-23 July 2025
  • 10am-5pm BST
  • Christie's King Street
  • £1,500
Image:

MARWAN (1934, DAMASCUS - 2016, BERLIN)
Head (detail)
tempera on canvas
76 3/4 x 102 3/8 (195 x 260cm.)
Executed in 1975-1976

Courtesy of Barjeel Art Foundation, Sharjah
© Estate MARWAN

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Study at the world's leading Auction House 

Christie’s, the world's oldest fine art auctioneer, has sold fine art, furniture, jewellery and wine since James Christie conducted the first sale in London on 5 December 1766.

Ever since, Christie’s London has continued to provide the perfect backdrop for the sales of the world’s finest collections and greatest works of art. Christie’s moved to its global headquarters at 8 King Street, St. James’s in 1823.

The gallery spaces at King Street are transformed into classrooms during our exclusive programming in London, so that students are immersed in the fast-paced environment of the auction house.
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In-Person Intensive

Course Schedule 

*Schedule subject to change
Day one
Morning
Sessions 1 + 2
Introduction to Modern and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art
Natasha Morris and Nadine Nour el Din

Afternoon
Session 3
The Life and Works of Marwan
Dr Ridha Moumni in conversation with Nagham Hodaifa

Session 4
Exclusive Guided Tour of Marwan: A Soul in Exile

Session 5
London Visit

day two
Morning
Session 1
Diasporic Art
Dr Hamid Keshmirshekan

Session 2
Spaces of Belonging: Designing Cultural Institutions with Communities in Mind
Rachael Jarvis

Afternoon
Session 3
The Baghdad Modern Art Group and the Making of an Exhibition
Dr Nada Shabout

Session 4
London Visit

Evening
Group Dinner
day three
Morning
Session 1
Curating and Acquisitions
Jessica Cerasi

Session 2
Modern & Contemporary
Middle Eastern Art:
Institutional Acquisitions
Marie-Claire Thijsen in conversation with Katia Vraïmakis

Afternoon
Session 3
Middle Eastern artists in the United Kingdom
Dr Ghadah Alharthi

Session 4
London Visit
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Certification Included

All attendees will be awarded a physical certificate of completion issued by Christie's Education at the end of the programme.

Discover the London art scene


Experience the vibrant Middle Eastern arts scene in London with planned visits to galleries and an artist's studio.

Leading
Experts

Learn directly from international specialists. Get first-hand market, academic and institutional insights.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Experience a curriculum designed for best practices and practical relevance for today's market.

Art-Historical Context

Deepen your understanding through analysis of artistic movements, regional histories, and cultural influences.

Networking Opportunities

Build connections with art world professionals, collectors, and peers from across the globe.

Here's what our students have said:



"An excellent setting for the learning, a broad and interesting international cohort, well-chosen and industry-leading speakers, fascinating studio and gallery visits, and, of course, our excellent hosts, Chelsea and Ted - thank you!"


"The course structure, topics and lectures were expertly organised and ordered to be a wonderful introduction into the industry. I always felt that Ted and Chelsea were constantly engaged and attentive to our needs, anticipating any needs/access requirements throughout the day."

For any queries about this course please contact:

Christie's Education London
Telephone: +44 20 7839 9060
Email: education@christies.com


For more information please refer to our FAQs