Art making

Subject Overview 

Art Making includes the fields of Art both 2D and 3D, Craft and Photography. Students create visual art-works that communicate, challenge and express their own and others’ ideas. Students will learn how to express ideas, concepts and themes through artistic expression, developing skills in planning and designing art works and documenting their own studio practice. Students will be given the opportunity to experiment with materials, techniques, technologies and processes in a range of art forms used to produce 2D and/or 3D artwork. These may include drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, photography, sculpture and installations. Students also study Art History through the analysis and evaluation of artworks and exhibitions including artists from different cultures, times and places, and discuss how ideas and beliefs are interpreted by audiences. Folio tasks will be based on the skills and knowledge needed to work as a Studio Artist within the Visual Arts fields. Students will be presented with a variety of skill building activities and will develop and create a range of artworks. Theory based Art History assessment will support folio based practical investigations. 

Art Making 1

Visual Arts 1 includes a focus on 3D art, including the use of paper based modelling and mixed media.  2D drawing methods are also investigated focusing on the Art Elements of Value, Colour, Shape and Line. Portraiture and still life are focus areas. Advanced graphite drawing is explored, using pencils ranging from HB through to 6B, blending sticks and kneadable erasers. The study of varied artists both historical and contemporary underpin the learning taking place. The exhibition of art works is considered, introducing students to exhibition design and curation.

Art Making 2

Visual Arts 2 includes a focus on 2D art, investigating drawing and painting, including the use of graphite, water colour and acrylic paint, collage and mixed media. Process and technique is a key consideration as students work through scaffolded painting projects. The Art Elements of Colour, Line and Shape are explored., with an advanced study of colour theory. Landscape is a focus area. Practical experiences are supported by the study of varied artists in both historical and contemporary contexts. 

Within Art Making 1 and 2 students will be assessed on their ability to:

●      document and follow the visual art design process

●      express themselves creatively through art making 

●      identify the influence of other artists

●      analyse and evaluate artworks from different cultures, times and places

●      produce a folio of examples showing a range of art methods

●      produce a number of artworks showing a development of technique and skill

●      maintain a cohesive and complete visual diary

Learning Activities:

Students will design and create artworks using some of the following art forms:

●      Drawing

●      Painting

●      Mixed media

●      3-dimensional artwork

●      Art Analysis, including the analysis of Exhibition Design and Curation.