Art and Design

The aim of Art and Design courses is to provide a broad, investigative and practical experience of art and design. Creativity is the key focus of the course.

Candidates develop knowledge of art and design practice by studying artists and designers and their work. They also develop an understanding of expressive and design processes and accumulate and use a selection of related skills. The course provides opportunities for candidates to be inspired and creatively challenged through their work.

What skills are developed?

producing analytical drawings and related investigative studies in response to stimuli
using visual elements expressively, showing a clear understanding of the subject matter
producing focused investigative visual and market research for a design activity
skills in using a range of art and design materials, techniques and/or technology creatively
developing and refining a variety of creative ideas for art and design work in 2D and/or 3D formats describing how artists and designers use materials, techniques and/or technology in their work
analysing the impact of social, cultural and other influences on artists’ and designers’ work and practice
using problem-solving, planning and self-evaluation skills within the creative process

What kind of person does it take?

It is suitable for learners with an interest in art and design, and for those who would like to progress onto higher levels of study.
It allows learners to consolidate and extend their art and design skills.
The course is learner-centred and includes investigative and practical learning opportunities.
The learning experiences in the course are flexible and adaptable, with opportunities for personalisation and choice in both expressive and design contexts. This makes it highly accessible, as it can be contextualised to suit a diverse range of learners’ needs and aspirations.

Horizons – where can this subject take you?

Product Designer, Jewellery designer, Furniture design, Lighting Designer, Photographer, Textile Designer, Public Artist, Sculptor, Film maker, Illustrator, Artist, Graphic Designer, Costume Designer, Fashion designer, Community Artist, Curator, Teacher, Gallery Owner, Events manager, Architect, Set designer, Advertising and marketing, Arts administrator, Web designer, Animator, Arts Therapist, Conservator, Lecturer, Make-up artist, Stylist.

Further job categories in this field can be found here.

Pathways – how can I make progression?