Art and Design

Course summary

In an increasingly visual world where problem-solving and the requirement to be able to think outside the box are growing in importance, these Art and Design A Level courses prepare students to engage with the world visually and understand the importance of the visual, design and decorative arts in the past and for the future of humankind. The courses are both intellectual and practical and build on GCSE knowledge and skills with students working with increasing independence using their strengths and areas that interest them and thus interpreting themes in individual and unique ways. It prepares students for a future in the many areas of Art and Design, engineering, architecture or as a vehicle for self-expression and a creative addition to the A-level choices. Both Fine Art and Textile Design follow the same course but with a different emphasis on the materials and techniques utilised to realise intentions. In both areas drawing, digital and photography are used. In Fine Art the focus is on painting, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics and printmaking. In Textiles the focus is on two-dimensional surface decoration using print, embroidery, felt, silk painting and working more 3 dimensionally with garment construction and sculpture. Students can work as a fine artists or as a designer using textiles. These lists are not set in concrete and students are encouraged to explore a wide range of materials and techniques and these will overlap between the areas. In both core topics covered will be: • Develop, review and refine ideas • Analyse contextual and other sources to inform your investigations • Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes • Record your ideas, observations and insights • Present personal and meaningful responses