Art and Design at Duff Miller provides an adventurous journey where imaginative, creative, intellectual and intuitive powers are explored. Through research and analysis, students learn about the visual world from the past and present developing an understanding of the ideas and meanings in the work of artists, craftspeople, and designers across cultural boundaries. Visits to Museums and Galleries are an important element of the course as this enables students to study a variety of original artworks at close quarters.
Students have the opportunity to use a range of materials and processes to develop and communicate their ideas, incorporating the use of contemporary technology when appropriate. The skills of painting and drawing are a foundation of the subject but all students are encouraged to develop their own interests and directions as their work develops, creating imaginative and individual artworks.
At Duff Miller, we believe in the creative potential of all our students and work hard to enable them to achieve their potential.
A-level and GCSE students are encouraged to pursue their own interests in response to set themes, but begin by working through a series of structured tasks which aim to develop their practical skills and understanding of the basic elements and principles of art. With encouragement, support and access to a broad range of materials, they soon evolve individual paths which can be challenging and experimental.
For those students studying in preparation for an Art Degree, there is the opportunity to create a broad and varied portfolio of work. It is also possible to combine this with an exam endorsed paper, e.g. Painting and Drawing.
Art and Design helps to develop the creative skills that can be used in the workplace: 1) Innovativeness 2) Creative ability to see and make connections 3) Effectively working individually and with others 4) Critical and logical problem solving 5) Critical judgement and decisions
The Study of Art and Design at Duff Miller College will be rewarding and enjoyable, although the course requires commitment, hard work and independence.
