This course is suitable for both absolute beginners and those more experienced in the art field. Learners should have an interest in exploring both the theory behind and techniques involved in abstract painting.

Each term will focus on a different technique of abstraction. Focus areas will include line and form, colour, texture and site-specificity. By the end of the course, learners will have a ?toolkit? of techniques and conceptual prompts from which to create work. This includes practical knowledge (canvas stretching, colour theory, use of different paint mediums) and theory (uses of abstraction, contemporary abstraction, critical analysis, research-based making). The course encourages the creation of paintings, though a final outcome is not necessary as the course emphasises experimentation. As you engage with the course and experiment with different techniques, you can select the processes that most suit you and develop your own project. You will be supported in developing your own ways of making and exploring abstraction. More experienced learners can focus on those techniques new to them and/or bring a personal project that they would like support in developing. The tutor can provide guidance around developing a professional and artistic practice.

You will be able to develop your skills by engaging with suitable projects determined by your existing level of experience in discussion with the tutor. Teaching is both as a whole class and an individual, one-to-one basis using demonstrations, discussion, examples, samples, handouts and other technical support material where appropriate. You will be able to negotiate individual learning goals together with the tutor. During the first session, the tutor will check your experience to date and personal goals for the course, and if it is considered that it is not the right one, you will be advised on a more suitable course. You will be working at your own pace and be given verbal feedback on your progress.

There is no exam or formal assessment for this course. However, you will complete an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) which will outline the learning objectives for the course. You will also be invited to set your own goals. You will receive feedback against the achievement of these outcomes during the course from your tutor, and in written form at the end of the course.However, you will work with your tutor to identify your aims at the beginning of the session and will receive one to one feedback throughout as well as sharing outcomes at the end of the course.

Once you have completed the course, you may choose to enrol on a further term in this subject or another subject in the Creative Arts department. For Art and Design courses, once you have developed a portfolio of work, you could consider applying to the Accreditted courses including L1, L2 Fashion or Illustration, or L3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design as a pathway into higher education. Advice and Guidance for all further study is available from the Curriculum Manager by request.

For more information, please contact the Learner Services Team via Live Chat or on 020 7255 4700 or email LearnerServices@wmcollege.ac.uk.

Teachers are supported to ensure their materials are inclusive to meet all learners needs. Provision of assistive equipment is available and access support can be provided through reasonable adjustments, subject to an assessment by the ALS team and/or the Disability Officer. Digital Learning support is available in the Learning Centre at our Camden site. Careers advice and guidance is also available to all learners.

WM College is able to provide financial support with course fees and you may be eligible based on prior qualifications, if you are on a low income or on benefits. For more information and to find out if you are eligible, go to the Fees & Finance page on our website or contact the Learner Services team via Live Chat or on 020 7255 4700.