Art

Fine Art A Level will enable students to explore an assortment of two or three dimensional approaches to their studies, investigating a range of artists and creative approaches and experimenting with a variety of techniques processes and materials.

Qualifications to start the course

Basic entry requirements for all A-Level subjects are a minimum of 8 GCSEs at grade 6 (legacy grade B), with Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language, GCSE English Literature, GCSE Mathematics. Students who have met the basic entry requirements for A-Level study but have not previously studied Art, or not achieved a grade 6 in Art, can still apply with the submission of a portfolio of artwork, which must include evidence of visiting a gallery or researching an artist and using this to develop their own ideas.

Description of the subject

The course gives you the opportunity to explore a wide range of ideas, materials and knowledge. You will develop your:

• intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive capabilities
• investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical and expressive skills, aesthetic understanding and critical judgement
• independence of mind in developing, refining and communicating their own ideas,
• ability to design your own intentions and create your own personal outcomes
• interest in, enthusiasm for, and enjoyment of art, craft and design
• ability in working with a broad range of media
• understanding of the interrelationship between art, craft and design processes and an awareness of the contexts in which they operate
• knowledge and experience of real world contexts and, where appropriate, links to the creative industries
• knowledge and understanding of art, craft, design and media and technologies in contemporary and past societies and cultures
• awareness of the different roles, functions, audiences and consumers of art, craft and design.

What you will do

At the start of the course you will spend time developing practical skills and exploring a range of short projects. You will increase and improve your use and understanding of chosen mediums such as: photography, painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture and art history. From this you will create a body of work called your Personal Project (coursework portfolio) and work over longer periods of time exploring set themes. You will explore themes through investigating the working practices of artists and experimenting with materials to support the development and refinement of your personal ideas. You will also create a personal study where you explore and write about the work of a range of relevant artists.

Future prospects

A career in the Creative Industries which includes: Architecture, Fine Art, Theatre Design, Product and Graphic Design, Interior Design, Fashion & Textile Design, Illustration, Animation, Television, Film Industry, Games Designer, Web Design.

The A level course will provide you with a portfolio for entry to a Higher or Further education course.