Drawing, Painting and Life Studies

What will the course Cover?

This course introduces you to the fundamental skills of art and design through drawing, painting, printmaking and sketchbook work. You will develop observational and experimental drawing skills, explore colour and painting techniques and learn basic printmaking processes. You will use a sketchbook to record ideas, experiment with materials and reflect on your creative development. Through a series of practical projects, you will build confidence in exploring creative ideas, use a range of art and craft materials and produce finished outcomes. You will also develop an understanding of creative processes, problem-solving and review and evaluate of your work while building a portfolio for assessment.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for beginners or those with limited experience in art and design who want to build their creative skills and confidence. There will be the opportunity to explore a range of techniques, generate ideas and produce practical visual outcomes in a supportive learning environment. It is suitable for learners seeking an introductory accredited course and provides a strong foundation for progression into further education, training or creative practice.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

No prior experience of art and design is required. You should have an enthusiasm for the subject and a commitment to completing the course requirements. Basic literacy, numeracy and digital skills appropriate to the level of the course are required. When booking and interview for this course, select the topic, Level 1 Award in Creative Craft - Art & Design.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

By the end of the course, you will be able to use a range of basic art and design materials and techniques with increasing confidence. You will have developed skills in observational and experimental drawing, painting, colour mixing and simple printmaking processes, and be able to record and develop ideas in a sketchbook. You will be able to explore and communicate creative ideas, produce finished pieces of artwork, and review and reflect on your own work. You will also have a portfolio of work that demonstrates your developing practical skills, creativity and understanding of art and design processes.

How is the course organised?

Demonstrations, practical tasks, presentations, individual and group discussions and formal feedback. Google Classroom is used as a Virtual Learning Environment on this course. When you log on you will be able to access course material including, presentations, and handouts. You will be given joining details and support, at the beginning of the course.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

You may be set additional tasks to complete at home. Your tutor will discuss these with you in a session when required. Research visits to galleries and museums and are recommended.

How will my progress be assessed?

You will receive regular feedback through individual tutorials and group discussions. Your progress will be tracked through sketchbooks, practical work, written reflections and photographic evidence. Formal assessments will occur linked to the Level 1 units. You will also be expected to record your work and progress in both digital and non-digital formats. The qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured through a portfolio of evidence, with no formal exams.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Learners who achieve this qualification can progress to a Level 2 Award in Creative Craft or Art & Design qualifications.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

The basic art materials will be supplied to complete the course. You will need to purchase any additional, specialised materials you require beyond what is available in the studio. It would be useful to bring your own apron as some processes are messy.

What support is available?

Help with literacy, numeracy or digital skills is available through the functional skills programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide, the Student Handbook or from teaching and reception staff.

Tutor - Deborah Esses-Potter

Deborah was born in Buenos Aires and studied Fine Art at the “Instituto Beato Angélico” in Argentina. She later earned a postgraduate degree in Art History of the Middle East from Tel Aviv University. She went on to pursue further studies in Mixed Media at the “Ernesto de la Cárcova” Fine Arts Academy under the guidance of artist and professor Alfredo Portillos, alongside a series of courses at the “Sotheby’s Institute of Arts”, “Christie’s Education”, and the “Zeichenfabrik” academy in Vienna. Deborah’s work has been exhibited extensively including London, New York, Holland, Berlin and Singapore. She currently lives and works in London, moving between figurative and abstract work, and uses drawing and mixed media as her primary means of expression.