Coursework

A-level Art Revisited at Swindon College

      I first undertook advanced level Art ("A-level"), when attending Rycotewood College, in Thame, Oxfordshire, England, between 1968 and 1969.   A-levels are usually taken after two years of study, completing circa one's 18th birthday.   The condensed course that I followed, only lasted for one-year, and the college was not able to offer an additional course in A-level Art.   I presented myself to the College Principal however, and was simply asked the question, whether or not, I believed I could pass the exam, in spite of the need for extra self-motivated study.   In my youthful enthusiasm, I answered, "Yes".   I took the exam before my 17th birthday, and passed with grade E.

        Thirty years later, my youngest daughter Allyson, amongst other things pursued A-level Art at Swindon College, where she was encouraged to attend an additional evening life class, once a week.   The course was designed for A-level students to further consolidate their observation and drawing skills.   While supporting her, I also found myself being encouraged to attend the class.   After she completed her Art exam however, I was invited to continue on with the course begun with her tutor, Greg May.  His gift amongst many others, was an ability to find merit in a work, and balance it with clear critical analysis.   Greg's circumstances dramatically changed that year however, when his partner gave birth to twins.  The course continued with tutor, Ros Clarkson, who amongst other things provided a dependable insight into the history of fine art and its significant inpact on contempory art.   I was encouraged to enter the exam, uniquely with a focus on figurative work.

      The national examinations board, OCR, required submission of coursework mounted on A1 size card, not exceeding 10 sheets (20 sides), and three final resolved pieces of work.   This represented 30% of the marks.   A dissertation also had to be produced, representing another 30% of the marks.   A fifteen-hour exam was required, representing the final 40% of the marks.   About a month before the exam, I was provided a list of questions.    After some consideration, I chose as my starting point,  "Lit from above or below", the question naturally following on from the projects, I had undertaken.