Art and Design

This is an introductory, project-based short course for students who want to experience working in a range of visual art and visual communication areas to produce an exciting, individual portfolio of work for progression to Access to Art and Design or similar college courses.

We are looking for engaged, motivated individuals who are hungry to develop their skills and experience a range of creative projects. You must be able to explore new ideas and techniques and to play with ideas and concepts in sketchbooks.

You may be experienced through:

• art courses at school
• art clubs and groups
• personal or independent making

You must also be prepared to develop and advance your work in pursuit of progression to the next level or stage in your journey.

You need good organisational time skills to meet course demands and to build the portfolio you need for your chosen progression route.

Applicants will be invited to an interview where they will be expected to show their suitability for this course by:

• showing a portfolio of your art and/or design work
• being prepared to discuss your work

Other factors that could support your application can include: 

• existing qualifications, e.g. Nat 4 or Nat 5 Art and Design
• alternative experience, e.g. membership in a community art group
• a personal statement

Further guidance on the interview process and portfolio requirements will be provided following the submission of your application.

Building your portfolio from a series of introductory projects exploring personal and market-based ideas, you will work on intriguing creative themes and briefs.

Working in 2D, 3D and digital media you’ll develop work for your portfolio while gathering ideas and experimentation in personal sketchbooks.

In 2D portfolio projects, you will experience…

• Drawing, painting and printmaking
• Graphic design and illustration

3D elements can explore…

• Ceramics and sculpture

Digital elements encompass…

• Use of professional software such as Photoshop

You’ll benefit from tutors with an expansive range of specialisms whose critique and support will help to grow your work technically as well as help you to develop your understanding of ideas and concepts.

What’s more, you will be working in specialist studios and workshops that are equipped to reflect the professional practice of artists and designers and to enable you to build a varied and diverse body of project work that reflects you as a creative individual.

Students who make the most of this course and construct an expansive portfolio have the opportunity to progress to our Access to Art and Design course or similar courses in visual art and/or visual communication areas.

This course not only nurtures your creative talents but also equips you with valuable meta-skills and transferable skills, making you adaptable and versatile in various areas of art and more.