MA Illustration - MA

You can opt to complete this module as either 180 credit points, or as 160 credit points with an additional module in Advanced Art and Design Research worth 20 credit points.

Illustration
(180 credit points or 160 credit points)

This module is taught in three phases.

Phase One: Creative Research and Development

During this phase you’ll work on a self-negotiated Masters project proposal, and on short Illustration briefs. These short projects have been specifically designed to give you the knowledge and grounding with which to launch into your MA project. You’ll establish good practice in design and illustration research methods and you will engage with observation and visual experimentation with the aim of developing the conceptual underpinnings for your project.

Group tutorials with your appointed supervisor will give you an opportunity to present your work in progress and to receive feedback and advice to further develop your set projects and project proposal. You’ll also attend presentations, workshops and seminars on topics relevant to the theory and practice of illustration and design research. With support from your supervisor and fellow students, you’ll research and develop your Masters project, ready for review and presentation at the end of the phase.

To complement your project work, you’ll also set personal learning aims in a journal of professional practice. In this professional journal, you’ll record your research into current and future trends in the discipline. You will critically reflect on this research and discuss how you can apply this to your own practice as an illustrator.

Phase Two: Creative Development and Testing

In phase two you will build on initial research and fully engage with your MA project. You’ll take an experimental approach, stretching the boundaries of your existing thought and practice to explore illustration in new and original ways. This exploration will include visual experimentation, ideation, research of specific media relevant to your chosen audience, professional contextual research and evaluation of your work through primary research. These key areas are designed to help you develop the foundations of an innovative and fresh response to the project you set for yourself in phase one, and to start to build a professional network.

Group tutorials with your appointed supervisor will provide an opportunity for you to present your work in progress, receive feedback, and set goals. If you opt for the 180 credit point version of this module you’ll continue to keep a professional journal. You’ll use it to record your personal learning aims, and as a focus for learning across the broader context of your area of specialist study.

Also in this phase, you’ll be encouraged to enhance your employability profile by engaging in field and primary research, making connections with professionals, and arranging short internships or visits.

Phase Three: Design for Production and Media

In phase three you will realise your Masters project through the media that you have chosen to work with. You will craft your outcome using analogue and digital techniques creating finished artwork that is of a professional standard, effectively communicating your research and ideas. In the past students have pushed the boundaries, creating illustrative outcomes that have been both 2D and 3D. These have included children’s books, animations, editorial illustrative outcomes, book covers, posters, merchandise, illustrated ceramics etc. You will exhibit these in the MA show and in your professional portfolio. You’ll continue to attend group tutorials, presenting work in progress and receiving feedback and advice to further develop your project.

In your journal of professional practice, you’ll be expected to show and reference advanced knowledge of the commercial processes, production and media commonly used for the design and distribution of illustration media. You’ll also keep a record of your project feedback. Final outcomes must include background material that shows the development of your project work, including sketchbooks, screen shots, and other visual support items.

Optional research module

(20 credit points)

Advanced Art and Design Research

This module will expose you to a range of different research methods across diverse practice-led research projects and research-led practices within Art and Design. If you are interested in pursuing your practice in the form of a PhD, this module will prepare you for further study.