Illustration

Course Structure

Year 1

You will explore the constant evolving creative environments that illustrators work in and examine the way in which illustration communicates ideas. You will develop an experimental, research-based methodology and consider the relationship between ideas and the wider practice of illustration.

A series of key ideas lectures will introduce you to several important debates and theories that underpin contemporary art and design. You will be introduced to a range of strategies to help you develop a research methodology and reflective approach to your studies.

Year 2

You will have the opportunity to negotiate a semi-directed programme that allows you to develop your individual concerns, exploring the themes, concepts, processes and materials that best reflect your personal approach to illustration. You will explore how you might develop a visual language through illustration and you will also have the opportunity to test your practice in an appropriate professional context, allowing you to examine the role of the receiver/user in the making of meaning.

Electives - This programme is undertaken by all 2nd year BA students and offers a menu of complementary studies that allows you to broaden your enquiry both in practical terms and in relation to critical and professional contexts. There is the opportunity to strengthen your practice, deepen a particular seam of critical enquiry and expand technical skills in specific media or processes. For example: sound, animation, philosophy, curating, performance.

Year 3

You will be planning, developing and realising your individual, self-initiated programme of study. You will be carrying out sustained practical and contextual research throughout the year. Through a choice of dissertation, work placement or live project you will explore in depth the context within which you choose to locate your practice. You will develop your ideas using an appropriate research-based methodology and work towards a completed body of work, which will prepare you for ongoing study and professional practice.