The History of Art in One Sentence : 500 Years of Art (But Funny) by Verity Babbs (PRE-ORDER)

DATE OF RELEASE: 25 SEPT 2025

What’s so special about Dutch paintings of cheese? When does Art Nouveau become Art Deco? Why were the Pre-Raphaelites obsessed with gingers? Who thought it was a good idea to put a big dead shark on display? In this book, comedian and art historian Verity Babbs journeys through 50 key art movements across history, answering ten questions for each in just one sentence at a time. Within these fascinating, and sometimes hilarious, nuggets of art wisdom, Verity covers everything from who inspired the movement and its impact on history, to the key artists and artworks for each. Spanning 500 years – from the Renaissance to the Young British Artists – this wonderfully illustrated book is for anyone who wants to learn more about art and also have a little giggle along the way.

It won’t answer everything, nor will you be a genius by the end of it, but you will feel a little less lost next time you’re in a gallery or museum and will most likely become a whole lot more helpful on your pub quiz team.

Hardback  
Publication: 25 Sept 2025, Bloomsbury 
ISBN: 9781526686893
Extent: 272 pages