Narratives in Art

Overview

This module will be taught  using a tutorial approach by creating and exploring contemporary exponents to visualize  stories told through painting. Students will make a brief study of the history of narrative in painting and develop their own narrative with three finished pieces from a theme of their choice. This is an excellent module to use in order to develop a portfolio for art school. Time gaps are embedded between classes to consolidate ideas.

Programme

This module will be taught using a tutorial approach by creating and exploring contemporary exponents to visualize stories told through painting.  Students will make a brief study of the history of narrative in painting and develop their own narrative with three finished pieces from a theme of their choice.  

Teaching on this course will be tailored to the individual. Observation and discussion will be used to assess your progress during the sessions and there will be an opportunity for you to self-assess alongside the tutor.  

As your tutor it will be my task to demonstrate, supervise, and provide group and individual advice and feedback throughout the sessions. Over the duration of the course, you will build up a portfolio of artwork and put together a visual diary that reflects the development of your portfolio, your experiments, revelations, and influences. Assessment of your portfolio of artwork and visual diary will take place during the last session of the course. As part of this course, you are encouraged to use the internet for your research, if you don’t have access to the internet then try your local library. Also for those able to access the library and facilities on University campus.  

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

1. Identify the processes and stages by which artists develop their narratives through the reflective journal.
2. Incorporate varied skills and techniques into students’ own work.
3. Compare and contrast historic and contemporary narrative formats and compositions.
4. Identify the need for different types of preparation work: ie life drawing, reference collection, use of photography. 

Reading Suggestions

Suggested artists to look up on the Internet are:

• Sidney Nolan – the Larrikin work and the Ned Kelly series
• Stanley Spencer
• Piero della Francesca
• Shani Rhys James and Kevin Sinnott, etc. 

Also, Old Testament stories, these could be accessed through your favourite paintings, to investigate deeper into the meanings of the stories that the artist was trying to convey. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

A list of materials, not included in the course fees, will be available prior to the course start date.