UHI Moray is offering students the skills, experience and focus required to create and progress in the field of art.
UHI Moray’s Moray School of Art, Elgin, has 12 places available-a-year for the University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 1 Award and Diploma in Art, Design and Media; and another 24 places for UAL Awarding Body Level 3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design, Communication.
Curriculum Team Leader, Cat Meighan, explained Level 1 is broadly equivalent to the Scottish Qualifications framework level 4, while Level 3 is broadly equivalent to SCQF Level 6.
She said: “UAL courses are great for portfolio preparation and allowing students to make decisions on what they are working on, providing an opportunity to develop their skills as artists.
“We have a wide range of age demographic – it’s never too late to start, or restart!”
Moray School of Art is one of Scotland’s five major art schools.
Attendees are taught by talented lecturers who are also working artists, building confidence and skills across a range of media.
Small student numbers mean a close working relationship with staff.
UAL Awarding Body Level 1 Award and Diploma in Art, Design and Media offers a programme of in-person material workshops without the commitment of a full year course.
The programme uses art and design materials, methods and processes to teach the students basic IT skills, and develop their knowledge and understanding for art and design education.
“This exciting entry level course is an excellent starting point for anyone unsure about their future,” said Cat.“It is an introduction to creative expression including painting, drawing, printmaking, 3-Dimensional work, exploring colour, textiles, digital media, photography, video and more. Students learn how to research in a creative way, and how to use a sketchbook.”
She added: “The course is delivered in a supportive and welcoming environment with friendly and knowledgeable staff.”
UAL Awarding Body Level 3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design and Communication develops student skills and understanding to create a strong visual portfolio for further study.
Working with a range of inspirational materials and techniques, participants: gain experience in life drawing and sculpture; learn how to research and reflect on the work of other artists; as well as choose project themes.
“Level 3 is preparation for getting a solid portfolio together,” explained Cat, “and being ready for further study.
“There’s more emphasis on evaluating and working on projects and decisions, as well as leaning into individual interests.”
The course also offers external speakers and field trips. Two trips are organised per year to Aberdeen and Dundee with no extra cost to see contemporary art in galleries and museums as a group.
“This is part of research and a fantastic chance to collaborate with classmates while seeing visual art in context,” added Cat.
“Level 3 is slightly changed this year due to awarding body changes. We had an excellent opportunity to refresh the curriculum.“
The external speakers are practicing artists, curators or producers who share fascinating insights into their careers, broadening our students exposure to different art forms, ways of working and the art world.
”The courses start in August and end in June. Both require three days-a-week in college with additional self-study.
Students can progress through the UAL levels then progress to Moray School of Art’s BA(Hons)in Fine art and other higher education art courses.
For more information, visit www.moray.uhi.ac.uk/study-with-us/subjects/visual-arts
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