Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Program Overview

The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design at Leeds Arts University is a one-year intensive program that develops artistic and design skills through problem-solving, idea generation, and critical thinking. Students explore various media and technical processes, culminating in a self-directed project showcasing their individual expression. The program prepares graduates for prestigious degree courses in art and design, as well as a range of creative careers.

Program Outline

Program Analysis: Foundation Diploma in Art and Design at Leeds Arts University

Degree Overview:

• A nationally recognized qualification for students seeking to hone their artistic and design skills.

• One-year intensive program.

• Focuses on problem-solving, idea generation, and critical thinking, pushing students to experiment and challenge their existing practices.
• Emphasizes visual languages and explores numerous media, with technical skill development across various processes.

• Culminates in a substantial, self-directed project showcasing individual expression and growth.

Outline:

• Stage One:
• Develops understanding of visual languages through diverse media and technical processes.
• Stage Two:
• Pathways:
• 3D Design:
Explores the physical experience and emotional connection with objects and spaces through playful experimentation and challenging perspectives.
• Fashion and Textiles: Analyzes design as a means to understand and engage with the world, focusing on changing personal experiences or affecting large audiences.
• Fine Art: Encourages exploration of individual artistic identities through experimentation, critique, and contextual understanding.
• Graphic Communication: Investigates design as a tool for communication, problem-solving, and storytelling, emphasizing clear concepts and impactful execution.
• Emphasis on developing a robust portfolio and addressing the following question through your work: "What is my work, and what is the point of it?
• "
• Access to workshops and facilities for various materials and techniques.
• Stage Three:
• Culminating stage where students refine and develop their chosen pathway through focused exploration and individual expression.

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment throughout the program.

• Various approaches depending on the pathway and project, potentially including essays, presentations, portfolios, and practical demonstrations.

• Focus on assessing individual progress, critical thinking, and skill development.

Teaching:

• Led by experienced staff, including practicing creatives and experts across diverse disciplines.
• Offers guidance and support throughout the application process for relevant degree courses.

• Provides a nurturing environment that fosters experimentation, critical thinking, and creative expression.

• Small class sizes and individual attention to support personalized learning and growth.

Careers:

• Prepares graduates for a range of prestigious and highly competitive degree courses in art and design.

• Provides strong foundation for various creative careers and fields.

• Empowers graduates to pursue freelance pathways or further postgraduate studies.

Other:

• Draws on strong historical roots from the University's 1950s origins.

• Provides access to dedicated and well-equipped facilities, including computer labs, a specialist art library, and practical workshops for printmaking, photography, and fabrication.

• Creates a strong sense of community and fosters lifelong networking among peers and alumni.

• Embraces a diverse student body and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

• Offers comprehensive financial and admissions information on their website.

For further details

, please refer to the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design program page on the Leeds Arts University website.