Fine Art Painting and Drawing (Joint Honours)

Three years full-time, part-time option available over five years.

This practice-based course develops the student's ability to express ideas through painting and drawing and is supported by an integrated theory programme. This enables students to explore personal ideas, develop an artistic language and understand the cultural position of their work in relation to historical and contemporary painting. A free exchange of ideas is encouraged, together with independent thinking and the consolidation of sound intellectual and practical skills.

As a major, joint or minor subject, Fine Art Painting and Drawing (Joint Honours) provides an academic route for those who wish to maintain a broad knowledge base and widen their career opportunities by studying a complementary subject.

The course is taught by practising painters and theorists in excellent spacious studios, within a lively art school community. Internationally known visiting speakers such as Ian Davenport and Michael Porter have enriched the curriculum. Students complete their studies by participating in the School of The Arts degree exhibitions.

Stage one

Introduces a range of technical and philosophical approaches, providing an introduction to painting and drawing with an emphasis on the development of skills and relevant historical contexts.

Stage two

This is a transitional phase towards full independent learning. Students are expected to develop their own particular interests and concerns and further develop appropriate skills. All practical work is supported by history and theory, providing the research skills necessary to contextualise and enrich the practice.

Stage three

Depending on their mode of studies, students are expected to consolidate their practical studies through either an exhibition or by means of  portfolio submissions. Joint Honours students have the opportunity to vary the proportion of time spent in the studio. This can be dependent on their mode of study and the choice of subject within which they wish to undertake their dissertation. 

• A mainly practice-based curriculum with a 'hands-on' approach to understanding media and developing skills
• Practical curriculum supported with a tailored theoretical programme
  
• Excellent facilities and studio spaces
• Talks from visiting artists and art professionals
• Curriculum that encourages individual creative outcomes reflecting the pluralist nature of contemporary painting practice
• Field visits to exhibitions both nationally and internationally
• Course taught by research active staff

The course is assessed in both theory and practice by essays, assignments, portfolio submission and exhibitions.

Fine Art students often continue their studies at postgraduate level, leading to employment in the education sector or health service such as teaching or arts therapies. Graduates also practice as professional artists or enter arts related careers such as gallery administration or art restoration. Graduates can find work in less clearly related areas where their creative approach to problem-solving is an asset to employers. Students may progress to the MA in Fine Art at The University of Northampton.