VISUAL ARTS AT ST ALBAN’S COLLEGE – AN OVERVIEW
Visual Art at St Alban’s College starts in Form 1 as a chosen Module. In Forms 1 and 2 we focus on laying down the basics in creative thinking and the implementation thereof in actual artworks. At this level, we concentrate mainly on drawing and painting to establish the basis for further development in the senior forms.
We also focus on art theory related to the elements and principles of art. Visual Art in Forms 1 and 2 is about having fun in a creative context, while learning new and interesting skills.
Visual Literacy also makes up a big part of the Forms 1 and 2 syllabi. It is a skill that teaches one to read and interpret visual imagery, and is of great importance in a world where so much relies on visual communication.
Visual Art as a subject provides a creative environment and a great opportunity for art students to improve their self-confidence and to intensify their awareness of the visual world that surrounds them.
In the senior classes (Forms 3 to 5), Visual Art comprises two main components: Practical Art and History of Art. The practical component builds on the foundations laid down in Forms 1 and 2.
Visual Arts in the classroom
Assignments are still focused on technical skill development but, in addition, conceptualizing, expressing individual ideas and perceptual thinking become important components of each art student’s creative growth. The opportunity to work with various media allows the art students to experiment and explore new and exciting genres in their art.
History of Art starts in Form 3 with Pre-history and covers the full history of art concluding with Conceptual Art and South African Art in Form 5. It forms a pivotal part of the senior syllabus and relates directly to the practical component of the subject. The two components work hand-in-hand to accomplish each student’s creative development.
Visual Literacy also makes up a substantial part of Form 3 to Form 5 syllabus.
Visual Art is so much more than just a subject. It is a wonderful journey of self-exploration and personal growth and, as such, is priceless. It allows pupils to explore, learn and create. It is a magical subject and a worthy journey!
Exhibitions
Termly exhibitions in the Art room, LEC and / or Auditorium display the students’ works and provide a way in which the students can show who they really are.
The Matric students have two important exhibitions throughout their final year: The ultimate, much anticipated, exhibition of the Form 5 work, in October, is a significant event on the school calendar.
Word of Art Club
The Word of Art Club is not only a Club for art students but non-art students who love to be creative and express themselves visually.
Staff
At the center of all learning lies the learner’s own experience. Visual Arts offers learners a unique way of exploring the world around them, expressing their own perceptions and discovering their own creative imagination.
The Visual Arts Staff aims to provide a nurturing and caring environment in which the boys can flourish artistically.
IT TAKES A SCHOOL WITH VISION TO PREPARE A YOUNG MAN FOR LIFE
