Studio Practice
Fine Art is taught in purpose-built accommodation in the heart of the University with generous studios, exhibition and installation spaces and well-appointed workshops with full technical support. The Hatton Gallery, one of the finest public galleries in the North of England, is housed in the Fine Art building. It has an excellent permanent collection and presents a wide programme of temporary exhibitions, including student shows. The Fine Art Department also accommodates a well-stocked materials shop.
Each student is given studio space. Year 1 have their own designated studio area and year groups two, three and four work along side each other encouraging a lively cross-fertilisation of ideas and practice. Small group and one-to-one tutorials form a crucial part of the approach to teaching. Students are encouraged to present and discuss their work with fellow students and staff in regular seminars and crits. Workshops are organised to offer students the opportunity to develop their skills and technical abilities in response to and to assist with the development of their work.
All academic staff are distinguished practitioners in their field and provide a broad range of practical, conceptual and professional expertise. This is supplemented and supported by an extensive programme of nationally and internationally renowned artists, curators and critics who contribute to the Visiting Lecture Programme each week as well as conducting tutorials and participate in seminars. Studio based Modules are assessed through the presentation of practical work including fully realised work, visual research and developmental work and may include an individual assessment tutorial. Assessment results both summative and formative include written feedback.