Visual Arts

This subject offers learners a way to engage with and respond to their world. It provides opportunities to engage the creative imagination. Learners are trained to make practical and aesthetic decisions in the development of a coherent body of work and become actively involved in shaping their environment.

Visual Art is divided into theory and practical work.

Grade 10: "Creativity is intelligence having fun" - Einstein

• is our year of play where we explore various artmaking mediums.

• Practical work is skills-based 

• In art theory, we cover art analysis, visual literacy and the history of art from ancient civilizations to the High Renaissance 

Grade 11: "Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist." - Picasso

• Students experiment with art mediums of their choice and can work within both 3d and 2d art pieces.

• This is the year to develop your skills as an artist - to decide on a personal visual language. 

• Theory is focused largely on European and American movements from Neoclassicism, through to Conceptual art. 

Grade 12 " Art is what happens when you dare to be who you really are." - Emily Freemanis 

• The year of bringing all our skills together. 

• Students have developed a personal visual language that demonstrates technical proficiency.

• The end-of-year art exhibition is the culmination of our 3 years of art education.

• Grade 12 Theory work is focused on the art of South Africa, looking at topics such as Sociopolitical art, Multimedia and New Media, Post Democratic identity, Gender etc.

Important Information:

Students choosing to do Visual art at the FET level are expected to have their own set of acrylic paints and paintbrushes as well as a range of lead pencils ranging from a 2H to a 6B. Acrylic paints vary greatly in cost but expect to pay at least R400 in material costs for a basic range. Fortunately, these are used every year so all students must have basic practical materials. Students are also expected to have their own visual diary. They may choose between either an A4 or an A3 diary – these are not just sketch pads! Visual diaries are used ongoingly, so only need to be replaced when they are filled. Depending on the dedication of each student a visual diary can last 1 year or it can last for 3. Diaries cost between R100 and R250. Students needing assistance with the purchasing of materials are welcome to approach the art department.

Visual Arts is a very demanding subject. It is recommended that learners should have a flair for Art, good writing skills and the willingness to work long hours. Learners are expected to purchase their own Art equipment.