Art and Design (Fine Art)

Course summary

From the moment that students join the Art department they are encouraged to develop an appreciation of art and design. They will acquire a range of skills that will be refined and improved upon, year on year. Art students will work using a variety of techniques and materials to achieve outcomes exceeding those set out by the national curriculum and often linked to every day experiences; by having ideas, exploring concepts, designing, creating and making, the students are guided to work productively in a friendly and conducive environment to produce an original portfolio of art. Art & design helps to develop lateral thinking and problem solving; this in turn will help to build confidence and adventurous artists, who can work in a number of different styles. Each segment of their learning will lead onto a higher stage that will challenge their existing expectations of themselves in order to develop individual strengths. UAI’s creative spaces are inspirational, with many artistic collaborations between year groups and subjects. Through taking up opportunities to participate in extra lunchtime sessions, students regularly experience 100’s of thought-provoking art activities that will help to enrich them further. GCSE art students work beyond the school community, within galleries, sections of the design industries and by immersing themselves in art cultural experiences, whether it be talking with contemporary artists or visiting design studios, students are able to see art & design in action, resulting in student learning of the highest quality. Art education at this school allows for the student artists to fully reach their potential and, most importantly, to develop a love of the subject which will stay with them long after they leave UAI.