NC - Art & Design

Level

SCQF Level 5/6
 

Entry Requirements

The NC Art & Design is an open access course, with no prior formal qualification required. You may be asked to attend an informal interview and bring any artwork you have. Drawing is considered important, and sketchbook work valued. As there is a limited number of places, early applications are welcome.

Duration & Mode

1 Year Full-Time & Part-Time available

Description

This is an award winning, innovative one-year course. It gives students the opportunity to work in the distinctive environment of the Outer Hebrides. The Uists have a wealth of different landscapes; moors, mountains and a spectacular coastline and retain their unique Gaelic culture and language.

The course is an open access further education course offering places for 8-10 students. The course is made up of SQA (Scottish Qualification Award) units, with a total of 20 units taught through out the academic year. The course is offered full-time over three days a week (Monday - Wednesday, 9am-5pm), with occasional workshops of 4 days with a part-time option available. However, every effort is made to offer opportunities for a flexible approach. The course runs from Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum & Arts Centre for 2 days and Benbecula College for 1 day., normally on Wednesday.

The units cover a range of fine art and design based projects with drawing forming the backbone of the work. For a full list of the units of work undertaken, click here.

Units include:

• Printmaking
• Printed Textiles
• Graphics
• Photography

It covers a range of media and techniques, and will provide a well-rounded portfolio of work on completion. Elements of the course will draw inspiration from our fascinating natural environment, with some location visits to different parts of the island. Studio projects work with the figure and use studies from natural sources for the basis of design work. The processes of investigation and making a personal creative response is encouraged. Furthermore, students will gain confidence in critical analysis of their own work and that of others. It aims to teach students skills and give them confidence to develop their own creative potential. A major feature of the course is the range of teachers used throughout the year, including visiting artists well-known in their respective fields and local artists with an intimate knowledge of their own environment.

Materials for the course are provided with each student receiving a starter pack with a range of basic drawing and painting materials. Students may be required to provide specialist material for individual development

The course prepares students for further study at Higher education level. This could be progression onto the BA Fine Art (level 1) , also offered at Taigh Chearsabhagh or on to Art College.

The Studios

Taigh Chearsabhagh provides a stimulating creative environment where students benefit from an extensive exhibition programme, contact from visiting artists and residencies. There is a large studio facing the sea, a print workshop and darkroom, as well as a dedicated art library. The Centre also houses a café, shop and post office and has a small self-catering flat which is used by visiting artists. Benbecula College has extensive IT facilities for research. Some elements of the course are delivered at the college campus.

What students have said:

“I recommend this course to school leavers who want to create a portfolio, It’s a great opportunity to get such intensive teaching”

“ Some people say that life begins at 40 but I say life begins at 50. I would have no hesitation in recommending this course to anyone. It was the best decision I ever made”.

 “I came on this course to gain more experience and feel more confident and I achieved both these goals and more”

Course Code: LEDIPAADF

Progression

BA Fine Art (Level 1/2)

Campus

Taigh Chearsabhagh (Lochmaddy, North Uist)