The History/Theory module provides the student with the opportunity to thoroughly investigate issues, trends and concerns that broadly inform the worlds of creative Fine Art production, practice and reception. This module is concerned with the realisation of an advanced level discipline-specific Undergraduate Thesis/Extended Essay (6000-8000 words) which critically evaluates the cultural conditions and theoretical frameworks that underpin a piece of independent self-directed discipline-specific research in a cognate Fine Art-related field and/or discipline.

1. Formulate and implement a structured schedule for thearticulation, evaluation and production of a piece of advanced level self-directed research.
2. Developsuitablecriticalstrategiesto test and validate relevantperspectives and concepts that inform the world of art production, practice and reception.

3. Employ strategies tocommunicatethe nature and significance of the research objectives, methods, findings and conclusions through pertinent historical-interpretiveresearch.
4. Define the area, rationale and value of the research through the integration of a literature review element.
5. Contextualise their own discipline area in terms of its interrelationship with other disciplinary fields and interactwith external groups connected to the research.

6. Consider the valueof a range of theoretical frameworks that afford a perspective on the links between theory andFine Art practice.

This module is designed to provide the foundation for the learner's creative output throughout this stage. Through the development of strong research methods and the exploration of ideas, materials and techniques the student will identify and begin to investigate their own set of personalised concerns.

1. Demonstrate an ability to identify a framework, set a personalised brief and respond appropriately (by researching independently and in a self-directed manner, setting goals, managing workloads and meeting deadlines)

2. Have accrued a thorough and selective knowledge, and focused critical understanding, of the works of other practitioners appropriate to the learners creative development.

3. Developed awareness of the nature of personal enquiry and identity and begun to articulate critical arguments in support of their work.

4. Address, and respond to, practice related problems through risk taking, independent making and critical reflection.

5. Gained a thorough knowledge of appropriate health and safety standards.

The course enables the student to become autonomous as a learner, practitioner and professional. It aims to produce a motivated and committed graduate capable of making a body of self-directed, reflective, artwork with an understanding of appropriate presentation and display strategies.

1. Show expertise and skills in their chosen area of practice (demonstrating a capacity to analyse, synthesise, summarise and critically judge information)

2. Be creative, flexible and resourceful in their manipulation of materials, processes and ideas.

3. Demonstrate an ability to produce quality work that is innovative or challenging within a contemporary Fine Art context.

4. Demonstrate an ability to understand, articulate and develop the relationship with audience through strategies of making and presentation.

5. Display proficiency in observation, investigation, enquiry, visualisation and making.

6. Articulate ideas and information clearly in visual, oral and written forms.

7. Work with, develop and respond to personal strengths and needs.

The emphasis in the Critical Writing: Practice-Based module is on the students own evaluation and location of their work within a variety of relevant contexts. The aim is to provide a framework that affords the student the means of responding – through a 3,000 word Critical Writing piece – to methods, processes, subject matter and contextual reference points related to the development of a final year body of work.

1. Identify topic area and contextual reference pointsthatposition the student’s individual art practice within a broader cultural,theoretical and/or contemporary art framework.

2. Create and articulate a specific discourse about their practice which tests and develops methods and insights.
3. Generate and apply critical and contextual writing to their own fine art practice and a body of work.

4. Use their own practice to develop critical inquiry and debate around the inter-relatedness of theory, practice, creativity and criticism.
5. Explore different modes and techniques of art-related writing to communicate effectively and produce a 2500-3000 word piece of writing that positions their own work in the world of art and field of practice today.

This subject aims to give the student a high level of professionalism in relation to their working practice. Emphasis is placed on developing communication skills both written and verbal, to confidently promote practice. Appropriate skills to make applications for a variety of opportunities will be developed through workshops and seminars and group work. Awareness of a range of practices in relation to exhibiting and promoting work will be delivered through a range of seminars, presentations project work and visits to group studios/galleries.

1.
Have the ability to confidently make appropriate applications for exhibitions and related career opportunities.

2. Be familiar with a range of modes for presenting and promoting their practice.

3.
Be confident in documenting and cataloging a body of work to a high standard.

4.
Reflect on and evaluate their own art practice in relation to relevant careers and opportunities.