Art

Course summary

Students wishing to study Art to Advanced Level will find a number of changes from their GCSE course. They will be working in a more able and highly motivated group of students. They will have a highly structured start to the course slowly easing off to celebrate individual preferences and personal investigation. Students need enormous creative energy and enthusiasm for the subject as they will find it a demanding and stretching course but also very enjoyable and exciting. The structure of the course echoes the structure of GCSE with 8-10 weeks in term one taking part in workshops. Students are introduced to a variety of techniques including both traditional and more experimental approaches to creating; something that will question their understanding of what drawing is and what it could be. Students have the opportunity to study different craft areas and record their experimentation and experiences in a sketchbook format. These craft areas are: • Photography including use of digital/physical manipulation. • Painting and other 2D techniques. • Sculpture including modelling, carving and constructing in a variety of materials. • Printmaking using processes including callograph, etching and screen print. • Textiles incorporating printing, dyeing and constructing. Students use some or all of the above skills to produce a highly personal project and an outcome piece or series. They will work closely with staff to discuss their ideas. They must be able to respond positively to advice and guidance and develop individual learning skills. Much of year 2 is spent on a personal investigations and externally set assignment.