Higher National Diploma in Illustration

Course Code AIH, Duration: 2 Years

Illustration is a highly specialized discipline within the field of Visual Communication. In our unique course, the students will not only focus on developing their drawing, painting and media skills, but will also learn to regard their work in terms of commercial viability. Students will be actively encouraged to develop a range of illustrative styles and explore the entire gamut of illustrative practice, including editorial, archaeological, architectural, technical, instructional, fashion, as well as illustration for greeting cards, websites, book covers and children's books. Working on tailored and competition briefs will be a key component of the course. Lectures by visiting lecturers working in the field of illustration will take place throughout the course.

Course Content:

Life drawing, Design Craft Skills, Media, Materials and Techniques, Exploring Illustrative Styles, Historical and Contextual Referencing, Computer Applications In Art and Design, Comics and Sequential Art, Representational Illustration, Imaginative and Conceptual Illustration, Visual Arts Professional Practice, Working in the Digital Environment, Layout Design and Typography, Critical Studies and Printmaking Techniques.

Entry Requirements:

Leaving Certificate / LCVP with a minimum of two HC3s one of which must be in Art and three passes at ordinary level or any FETAC level 5 Certificate in Art with a merit profile. Art Portfolio displaying a very high level of drawing skills (See guidelines). The academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants (21+).

Certification:

BTEC Higher National Diploma in Illustration

Progression:

Students will complete this course with an illustration portfolio ready to begin in the industry. Viable progression includes museums, architectural firms, design studios, newspapers and magazine publications, publishers, and freelance work. Some students will choose to continue their art education to degree level.

Portfolio Guidelines:

Please bring to the interview a professionally presented portfolio of recent and original works including

Drawing: Life and Observational both showing strong use of line, tone, texture and composition. Please include a wide range of media and a variety of subject matter.

Colour: Work can include painting, collage, printmaking, textiles and mixed media
Personal: work should be creative and conceptual
Sketchbooks:work should show artistic/cultural interests