The Department of Art History, Visual Art and Theory (AHVA) at the University of British Columbia is a vibrant centre for research, teaching and learning. Our primary goal is to foster critical and reflexive thinking within an inclusive and supportive environment.

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AHVA Alumnus Abbas Akhavan to Represent Canada at 2026 Venice Biennale

 
AHVA Alumnus Abbas Akhavan to Represent Canada at 2026 Venice Biennale

2024 Audain Travel Award

 
Congratulations to current MFA Visual Art candidate Yuan Wen!

AHVA Initiative Received Indigenous Strategic Initiatives Fund

 
The Department initiative, Indigenous Art History Toolkit Project, has received a $66,000 grant from the Indigenous Strategic Initiatives (ISI) Fund
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The art history BA at UBC has been fundamental to my development–intellectually, professionally and personally. The rigorous coursework gave me a strong foundation to pursue graduate studies and embark on a career in the gallery world. Even if you aren’t interested in pursuing art history, taking one course can help you engage more critically with images, objects and change your world view.

Leo Cocar
BA Art History '19