A Level Art and Design AQA

This subject is broken down into 82 topics in 8 modules:

  1. Knowledge and Understanding 5 topics
  2. Skills 6 topics
  3. Art, Craft and Design 5 topics
  4. Fine Art 11 topics
  5. Graphic Communication 15 topics
  6. Textile Design 13 topics
  7. Three-Dimensional Design 14 topics
  8. Photography 13 topics
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  • 8
    modules
  • 82
    topics
  • 33,497
    words of revision content
  • 4+
    hours of audio lessons

This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Art and Design

Knowledge and Understanding

Development of Ideas

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Development of Ideas

Conceptual Understanding and Critical Analysis

  • Brainstorming is a core process in developing creative ideas. This involves creating a mesh of ideas and thoughts related to a theme or subject.
  • Critical analysis involves deep thinking about how your ideas can be practically applied within an artwork. It can aid in identifying the most effective methods of conveying a particular message or feeling.
  • Research plays an integral role in the development of ideas. Engaging with the works and techniques of other artists, both present and past, can provide valuable insights and spur inspiration.

Progression of Ideas

  • The continuous refinement of original ideas is key to creative progress. Feedback, reflection, and revising plans accordingly further refine an idea.
  • Visual diaries or sketchbooks can be effective tools in this process, recording thoughts, experiments and progress.
  • Introducing variations on a theme, employing different techniques or mediums or exploring contrasting perspectives, can expand an initial idea and uncover new paths of creative exploration.

Communication of Ideas

  • Delivering emotional impact often lies at the core of impactful artworks. Consider how the use of colour, texture, form and space might convey certain feelings or moods.
  • Prints, sculptures, video installations, or digital media? Consider which medium best communicates your idea. Experiment with various mediums and methods to stretch your artistic capabilities.
  • Subject matter and symbolism can be a powerful communicator within an artwork. Reflect on the motifs, symbols, or subjects that might resonate with your intended message or theme.

Evaluation and Reflection

  • Self-reflection is vital for developing your ideas. Analyse your successes and areas of improvement, and consider how you could incorporate that learning moving forward.
  • Critiquing your work through different perspectives allows you to explore new dimensions all together. Ask colleagues or teachers for their views, and consider the impact of cultural or historical contexts on interpreting your work.
  • It's important to remember the relevance of the initial idea while critiquing. Has the execution of your project stayed true to the original concept, or has the idea evolved during the process? Recognising this can deepen your understanding of your own creative journey.

Course material for Art and Design, module Knowledge and Understanding, topic Development of Ideas

Art and Design

Graphic Communication

Using Media and Materials

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Using Media and Materials

Understanding Different Media and Materials

  • Traditional Media: This refers to the basic means of expressing visual art, such as drawing, painting, 3D moulding, and printmaking. These are often the starting point in graphic communication concept development.
  • Digital Media: This refers to the use of software and hardware to create digital art. Common digital media used in graphic communication include Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Mixed Media: Sometimes, a project may require a combination of traditional and digital media to maximise the design's impact and reach.
  • Choosing the Right Material: Different base materials such as paper, cardboard, acrylic, or fabric can enhance your graphic design and contribute to the visceral experience of the viewer.

Exploring Media and Material Techniques

  • Experimentation: One of the key factors in using media and materials in graphic communication is experimentation. Trying out different techniques can often lead to unique and unexpected results.
  • Texture: Different media and materials can produce varied textures, contributing to a design's visual intrigue and making it more engaging.
  • Colour: Understanding colour theory and effectively utilising colour is crucial to any graphic design project. Different media can convey colours in unique ways.

Application of Media and Materials

  • Relevancy: The media and materials used must be relevant to the project's system of communication, and should directly contribute to the design's message.
  • Innovation: Pushing the boundaries of what is achievable with different media and materials can result in original and distinctive designs.
  • Integration: The chosen media and materials should be seamlessly integrated, ensuring they add to the design without dominating it.
  • Quality: Maintaining consistently high quality across all components of the project, from colour accuracy to physical durability of materials, is essential.

Effects of Media and Materials on Audience Perception

  • Cultural Connotations: Different media and materials carry cultural connotations that can influence the audience's perception and interpretation of a design.
  • Mood and Emotion: The choice of media and materials can evoke certain moods and emotions, contributing to the overall impact of the design.
  • Tactile Experience: In some projects, the tactile qualities resulting from a particular choice of materials can have a profound effect on the audience engagement.

Real-world Considerations in Using Media and Materials

  • Cost: Different media and materials come at different costs. In professional design practice, it's important to consider the budget of the project when selecting media and materials.
  • Environmental Impact: The designer must consider the environmental consequences of their chosen media and materials, preferring those that are eco-friendly.
  • Durability and Longevity: The media and materials used must withstand wear and tear, particularly for designs aimed at public spaces or long-term displays.

Course material for Art and Design, module Graphic Communication, topic Using Media and Materials

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