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Art School Experience

  • Level(s) of Study: Short course
  • Start Date(s): 7 October 2023 / 20 January 2024
  • Duration: Saturdays 10 am - 1 pm, ten weeks
  • Study Mode(s): Short course
  • Campus: City Campus
  • Entry Requirements:
    More information

Introduction:

Is immersing yourself in the art school way of life something you’ve dreamed about?

If so, join this ten-week course and start developing your personal approach to creating art.

This practical course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to create a unique and diverse body of artwork.

This could be for personal interest, future studies or professional development; the success of the course is down to the varied interests of the people who attend.

Projects will explore creative thinking and the different processes involved when producing work that has been carefully considered.

  • You’ll be part of a design community in our creative studio culture; one that promotes discussion and collaboration, and encourages experimentation and the constant swapping of ideas.
  • With a limited class size you'll have the one-to-one attention you need to ensure you leave with the skills to continue developing your designs at home or work.
  • Benefit from learning with an experienced tutor who has established links to the profession and significant experience working in varied practices.
  • On successful completion of the course you will receive a certificate of attendance.

Here's what some of our previous attendees said:

"I was able to discover new art techniques through the diversity of the course and particularly enjoyed life drawing and lino cutting."

"Great course - really enjoyable and diverse."

"Learning new techniques and being taught by experiences teachers with sound knowledge of the subject matter I enjoyed the wide variety of mediums used."

"Brilliant course - loved it! There was such variety and exploration of new techniques."

"Exceeded my expectations. Being stretched and challenged and being exposed to new approaches, techniques and skills with 100% engagement from the tutors, I am re-ignited."

"Loved it!"

What you’ll study

You’ll undertake exercises in the studio that will incorporate drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking, surface design and more.

The aim is to build your confidence and vocabulary when working in an art studio.

A different theme will be the focus each week, including:

  • body and adornment
  • colour and light
  • drawing and observation
  • idea generation and project development
  • life drawing and experimentation
  • photography and image making
  • texture, pattern and surface
  • visual communication
  • working with space and place.

The course will teach you the importance of sketchbooks and how to approach independent research.

There will also be time dedicated to assessing your individual development to ensure you are progressing, plus a final review day for reflection and celebration.

To make the most of this course, you’ll need to commit to a small amount of independent study time between sessions.

How you’re taught

This course will be delivered in person on Nottingham Trent University City Campus.

Further information

You’ll leave this course with the skills, knowledge and determination to continue developing your personal approach to making art.

The course can help you start a portfolio for further studies, or it can simply be an opportunity to work in the art school environment on a variety of structured projects.

Tutor profiles:

James Gant has been teaching painting and drawing at various educational institutions for almost twenty years after completing his degree in fine art.

He works as a freelance artist on a range of exciting projects including films, book illustrations and murals as well as his own personal work.

He has vast experience in teaching creative painting and drawing techniques to all skill levels and feels it important that the learner understands the potential of the materials so that they can explore and express themselves in an exciting and personal way.

Sam Taylor’s experience of teaching has encompassed a range of art and design subjects including 3D design, architecture, sculpture and set design.

She promotes the importance of learners developing ideas through practical experimentation using 2D and 3D problem solving skills.

This accumulates into an interesting body of work for portfolio purposes.

Sam has a Masters in glass making, and creates both sculptural and functional forms.

She also holds a wealth of knowledge working with a wide range of other 2D and 3D materials, techniques and processes including working with wood, plastics and metals.

Campus and facilities

Entry requirements

Level: Open to all

Entry requirements: No previous experience is required, just plenty of energy and a willingness to share your ideas.

Fees and funding

The fee for this course is £525.

Payment is due at the time of booking.

How to apply