AS / A2 Art & Design

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
The Fine Art course promotes an experimental approach, using a wide range of media including painting, print, mixed media and digital imagery. If you are keen to explore observational drawing you will be suited to the course as it underpins all Fine Art practice and is seen as an essential requirement for the course.
Developing your creative understanding can be useful in many fields of learning as well as a range of careers. It is particularly appropriate for advertising, architecture, industrial or product design, history of art, teaching and work in the creative industries. After further study at an Art school, Fine Art can lead to careers in design, textiles, fashion or even as a practising Artist.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
Students engage in practical studio work, which is informed by relevant contextual study, and are encouraged to further their artistic interests, understanding and skills within a supportive environment. Students are encouraged to explore and develop ideas as well as being introduced to new techniques and processes. The AS and A2 courses comprise of two units each - coursework units and an externally set assignment. All of these units allow personal responses, and staff will encourage you to work to your individual strengths.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Informal assessment takes place throughout an assignment and there is a formal assessment at the end of each unit. At the end of the course you will exhibit all your work. It will then be finally assessed and externally moderated.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
You will need to have an interest in Art and Design and have at least a grade C GCSE in an Art and Design subject or the equivalent. A prior understanding of the basic elements of art, craft and design and commitment to the subject are also major requirements for success. During the course you will learn how to interpret and convey ideas, how to develop your imagination and creativity and how to increase your analytical, experimental and documentary skills. You investigate both representational and abstract work informed by relevant contextual links.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Students can progress directly onto Art and Design related degree courses at University after they have completed their A levels. However there are some Universities which prefer students to take an Art Foundation course prior to starting a degree to broaden their experience.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
As well as research trips and gallery visits, we invite speakers from universities and from industry to talk to you about career possibilities. So if you enjoy being creative and you are hard working then AS and A2 Art and Design is the course for you.