Sustained Investigation 

1. Purpose: 

The sustained investigation in the AP 2D Design portfolio is an opportunity for students to delve deeply into a specific artistic concept or theme of their choice. It's designed to showcase their ability to develop a cohesive body of work that explores their chosen subject matter thoroughly.

2. Number of Works: 

Typically, students are required to create a series of around 12 artworks as part of their sustained investigation. These artworks should all be related to and build upon the chosen theme or concept.

3. Cohesiveness: 

The key to a successful sustained investigation is cohesiveness. All the artworks in this section should connect conceptually, visually, or thematically. They should demonstrate a clear and consistent exploration of the chosen idea.

4. Diverse Approaches: 

While the works in the sustained investigation are related, students are encouraged to experiment with diverse artistic approaches, media, and techniques within the context of their chosen theme. This demonstrates their versatility and creativity as artists.

5. Artist's Statement: 

Alongside the visual artworks, students are required to provide a written artist's statement that explains the concept, motivation, and creative process behind their sustained investigation. This statement is an essential component of the portfolio, as it helps evaluators understand the depth of the student's artistic exploration.

6. Evaluation: 

The sustained investigation is assessed by experienced art educators and professionals who evaluate the cohesiveness of the series, the depth of exploration, the creativity, and the student's ability to communicate their artistic intentions effectively.

7. Conceptual Development: 

What sets the sustained investigation apart from the "Breadth" section of the portfolio is the sustained and focused exploration of a single idea. It allows students to demonstrate their ability to develop and evolve their artistic concepts over a series of works.

8. Theme Selection: 

Students are encouraged to select a theme or concept that personally resonates with them and allows for meaningful exploration. Themes can range from personal experiences and emotions to social, cultural, or environmental issues.

In summary, the sustained investigation in the AP 2D Design portfolio is a section where students create a series of artworks that revolve around a specific theme or concept. It's a platform for them to showcase their ability to develop a cohesive body of work, experiment with different approaches, and communicate their artistic intentions effectively. This section plays a crucial role in demonstrating their artistic skills and creative depth to the portfolio evaluators.