IB Visual Arts

Why study Visual Arts?
We have always needed to express our ideas and feelings through different means. Today artists, designers and crafts people affect all our lives. The Visual Arts can cover a multitude of possibilities in two and three dimensions from drawing, painting and sculpture, through to commercial applications in graphics, fashion, textiles, industrial and interior design.

What will I learn?
Through the course you will explore three main areas:

• 1. Visual Language where you will develop skills working in different art, design and craft areas.
• 2. Themes and Ideas where you will develop your own ideas and interests looking at possibilities in art, design and craft contexts.
• 3. Social, Cultural and Other Contextual References where you will explore the influences and experiences that affect your own work and that of other artists, crafts people and designers.

How will I Learn?
This course will introduce you to art concepts and techniques through practical work in the art studios. Through personal programmes of research, you will be encouraged to learn through experimentation and exploration using a wide range of materials, techniques and processes. You will be able to work in a variety of specialist areas as diverse as Fashion and Textiles, Graphic Design, 3D Design and Fine Art Painting, Sculpture and Printmaking, as well as Photography and Electronic Media. You will record your research through sketchbook and journals, developing your ideas towards more ambitious final pieces. You will also make visits to exhibitions, galleries and professional studios in this country and abroad.

What will I be able to do next?
An International Baccalaureate qualification in Art as a component of your Diploma Programme is rated highly by universities â€" either as an entry qualification for further study of the Arts or for the study of a range of subjects. A good grade will help you to secure a place to study almost any subject at any university, either in the UK or abroad.

How will I be assessed?
At the end of the course you will present a final exhibition of studio work completed throughout the two years. This, together with a discussion with a visiting examiner, will form 70% of your final assessment. The final 30% will be based on your sketchbooks and work journal.

Course: IB HL and SL