This is where Art and Design teachers hang out on TES. The TES Art and Design group is the place to get lesson ideas and inspiration, to share best practice and it’s where you can get your questions answered by your peers.
Hello all
I am hoing to apply for PGCE Art and Design, although my undergraduate degree was history of art not practical. I am contacting independent ITT providers as some will accept an art history degree with a portfolio of work, while some will not.
I was wondering what advice people would give for putting together impressive portfolios for interview stage? I have a large body of work in soft pastels and oil paints and also want to include some textile and silk screen printing. I have seen some courses for help putting together portfolios for getting into art school would people consider these useful? Some institutions even require the one year foundation course in art.
Any thoughts much appreciated.
For my interview I was advised to include work from my art foundation course, all 3 years of my exam and recent work and include as much variety as possible. I would suggest trying to cover as many aspects of art as possible including: painting, drawing (life drawing would be perfect), illustration, printing, installation, video, photography, digital work, sculpture, textiles, fashion, print for textiles, graphic design, ceramics, etc. I'd say quality + diversity is the key!!
Bear in mind history of art is a totally different subject and you may be missing certain key skills which you will need to learn before you can teach. I'd suggest considering a one year foundation course which will introduce you to a huge range of practical skills you may not have come across. It's also fantastic fun!! I enjoyed my foundation year more than my degree!!
Yep- variety is the key, totally agree. Oil painting is all very well for examples of your own practice, but does not transfer well to the classroom. School experience is also really important before interview. Images of the work you saw being produced could also be included as a point for discussion.
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