Illustration (BA Hons)

In year one you will learn how visual language and graphic communication work within illustration through practical investigation with a range of materials and processes including drawing, pictorial storytelling and various digital applications. You will also explore the history of illustration and its position in the wider context of the creative arts and culture.

In year two you will develop an experimental approach to drawing, examine a variety of formats, conventions and styles of storytelling, and work on industry-standard illustration briefs and national competitions. You will learn how to develop your unique ‘personality’ as an illustrator and extend your critical understanding of illustration and its place in the creative industries.

In year three you will develop and manage two major illustration projects, undertake an in-depth investigation into an area of visual culture of your choice and extend your knowledge of employment opportunities in the creative industries.

You will be taught a very broad approach to illustrative practice which combines traditional hand skills with more contemporary digital practice. This will provide you with the opportunity to learn a wide range of illustration approaches such as printmaking, animation, sequential illustration and digital applications. You will learn in a studio culture and will predominantly work within the HE ‘Creative Hub’ at New College Swindon, where you will be part of a wider community of creative practitioners. You will have access to a variety of specialist equipment and materials to develop and present your illustration projects.

You will be taught the theoretical elements of the course, principally the core modules in Historical and Contextual Studies and Business Studies, using a mix of formal lectures, seminars and tutorials. Your studio-based practical modules will be taught using a mix of lectures, discussion, seminars, workshops and tutorials.

You will be assessed on your practical and written coursework. For each practical module, you will present your final work in the form of a portfolio of illustrations or a presentation. For each theory module, you will be assessed on written coursework, through essays, reports or verbal presentation. In year three you will also submit an extended essay as a final dissertation alongside a major public exhibition of your Illustration projects.

You will receive regular verbal feedback on your learning through individual and small group tutorials, and written feedback once you have submitted practical or written work for assessment. Our feedback will support you to develop your work further and will help you to identify and promote your strengths.