COURSE: DIPLOMA IN FINE ART

SAQA Qualification ID No. 49864

The Fine Art Course at the Ruth Prowse School of Art offers hands-on tuition that facilitates the development of practical, visual, theoretical and self inquiry and the realization of visual literacy. The Fine artist plays an important role in society by expressing observations of social norms, value systems and cultural practices.

We celebrate creative authenticity and encourage the development of an Art world identity through a nurturing community of practice within our art studios.  Students are exposed to traditional approaches and new perspectives in drawing, painting, mixed media, illustration, printmaking, photography and installation.

This diverse course at the School offers students the opportunity to develop and hone the skills needed to pursue further specialised study such as animation or restoration; or one of a range of career options such as professional art practice, illustration, informal education and gallery management.  An enriching, open tuition is encouraged by the cross-pollination of ideas and methodologies in a climate of collaborative learning. The course begins with the comprehensive foundation course in first year that is intended to provide the student with a wide and intensive exposure to many forms of visual expression, learn a variety of fundamental skills and develop a visual literacy and visual vocabulary.

The Fine Art course is refined and consolidated in the second year of study with more areas of specialization and provides the student with the opportunity to discover their visual voice, areas of speciality that they really enjoy, and to hone intellectual and practical skills.  The course culminates in the individual specialization at third year with the production of a student-orientated professional body of work with a related dissertation. Students are exposed to the industry with the opportunity to work shadow, engage in projects with real clients and freelance opportunities.

The course is presented by a dynamic team of lecturers who are practising artists in their respective fields. Information imparted to students is relevant and related to both classical and contemporary art practice. Diverse talents and interests combined with a guest lecturer program ensure that students benefit from a comprehensive body of knowledge. The Staff are united in the common goal of educational excellence within the framework of a friendly atmosphere and are committed to helping students realise their full potential. Students are exposed to the industry with the opportunity to work shadow, engage in projects with real clients and freelance opportunities.

APPLICATION AND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Students are required to have successfully graduated from Grade 12 with a National Senior Certificate with a combination of recognised NSC (National Senior Certificate) subjects as well as certain levels of achievement in these subjects- at least 30% in English and at least 40% in 4 recognised NSC 20 credit subjects.

The following is required:

1. A Portfolio of the following:

• 1 Realistic interior study with a figure in pencil or charcoal on A3 (30 x 42 cm) cartridge.


• 1 Realistic Self-portrait in pencil or charcoal on A3 (30 x 42 cm) cartridge.


• 1 Realistic Still-Life in paint on A3 (30 x 42 cm) primed cardboard.


• 1 Conceptual piece with a Social Purpose or Self-to-World in any media on suitable A3 format.


• 1 Abstract Piece in unconventional non-traditional materials on suitable A3 format.

*Additional artworks as support material can be submitted in photographs or on CD

The portfolio is advised to be well presented and mounted or in a Flipfile. No framed works please.

The greatest emphasis in evaluating an application is placed on the portfolio

2. A 500 word Essay.

For FA please answer the following in your own words:

“What is Art?”

3. An Interview (if students are local). If an interview is not possible, greater emphasis is placed on the written motivation.

4. A Terminology List: (in your own words or from a dictionary) to be completed at the school after the interview.

5. A 250 word written Letter of Motivation outlining student interests, strengths and reasons for the particular career path to be completed at the school after the interview.

(Please note: The written component will assist the school in support programs that may be required for students)

For more information on Ruth Prowse School of Art