Unique gallery courses explore the fascinating world of art and ideas found in the Museum's collection and current exhibitions. Participants have the opportunity for close encounters with art through lecture and guided discussion.

Courses are designed for adults and taught by educators, curators, and scholars. Registration and tickets are required for all courses.

Enrich your Saturday nights. Join an open-ended discussion in the galleries to heighten your appreciation and understanding of the visual arts by exploring one masterpiece with an educator. The chosen work of art changes every session, making each visit a new experience. Course fee $25 per session (includes a food voucher and parking). Meet at the Museum Information Desk for course introduction.

Learn more about this program on our blog, The Iris.

Next in the series

A Masterpiece to Be Explored

Saturday, August 12, 2017
6:00–8:00 p.m.

Novice and seasoned museumgoers are invited to fully experience works of art in the Museum's collection. Educators direct discussion and the study of select masterpieces. Each course includes up to four thematically linked sessions, which take place once a month, usually on a Saturday morning. Attend a single class or the whole series.

Recently in the series

The Erotic Male: From Classical Antiquity to Mapplethorpe

Sunday, April 17, 2016
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Getty Center, Boardroom and Museum galleries
Tickets $35; complimentary parking, refreshments will be provided.

A toned athletic body and remote gaze have signaled elite masculine beauty and sexual allure for thousands of years. Discover with educators Shelby Brown and William Zaluski the social and sexual contexts of posed and perfected classical nude sculptures, and explore their ultimate influence on the nude and portrait photography of Robert Mapplethorpe.

Enjoy an afternoon at the Getty Villa exploring the antiquities collection, gardens, and ancient architecture. Course fee varies.

Recently in the series

Talking to Ancient Gods:
Giving Gifts and Reading Guts

Saturday, March 18, 2017
1:30–4:00 p.m.
Getty Villa Meeting Rooms and galleries
Tickets $35; complimentary parking. Refreshments will be provided.

How did Greeks and Romans talk to and worship their gods? Discover with educator Shelby Brown the ancient role of omens, portents, prayers, and sacrifice. Explore human negotiation with the divine, from giving gifts and asking favors to watching birds and reading entrails. Then tour relevant objects in the galleries.

Bacchus Uncorked: Wine and Seduction

Sunday, February 12, 2017
3:00–6:00 p.m.
Getty Villa Founder's Room and galleries
Tickets $75; Complimentary parking, must be at least 21 years of age.

Celebrate the spirit of St. Valentine with an afternoon exploring love and wine. Take a gallery tour focused on Bacchus and Venus, two gods who influenced the grapevine and inspired human passions. Then join wine educator Giammario Villa to sip and learn about wine and enjoy hors d'oeuvres. Start with a bubbly sparkling wine, discover the nuances of the Grenache grape tasting wines from Spain, Italy, and France, and conclude with an indulgent sweet sherry and chocolate pairing.

See all upcoming courses and demonstrations on our event calendar.