Art
For many students, art is a new subject in year 7 and at Sawyers Hall College, we teach the subject, through all years, all the way up to A level. Art is a brilliant way to work in a practical and creative environment, to do something visually imaginative and expressive. But don’t be afraid, being ‘good at art’ is not all that it is about; art and design provides all students with the opportunity to be creative, to make judgements and to experiment in lots of different ways – as a critic, maker technician, designer, adviser and researcher.The range of activities we undertake at Sawyers Hall begins with an exploration of the building blocks of art- what we need to know to appreciate, express ourselves and to make it. You will discover the possible uses of colour, line, tone, shape and form working with paint, collage, print and sculpture.
Western European Art, Asian, African, Native American and other alternative art forms underpin our knowledge base. We are always looking for opportunities to go and see exhibitions and many students enjoy our annual trips to visit The National Gallery, Tate Modern and Tate Britain – a new experience for some to see real art work first hand and to work with professionals outside the school environment.
At GCSE and A level you develop and refine your strongest skills. You are allowed, and we encourage you, to take a really independent approach - therefore success in the subject is all about working on your own ideas and trying things out for yourself – you will have the opportunity to work on personal projects as well as teacher-devised activities. Your work is ‘hung’ around the school and in special public exhibitions in our art studios.
Doing and understanding art develops your self knowledge, it allows you the freedom to communicate your feelings; and reveals the way other cultures have contributed to our culture and environment.