BA (Hons) Carving: Woodcarving & Gilding
Program Overview
This three-year BA (Hons) Carving: Woodcarving & Gilding program prepares students for careers in architectural heritage as professional woodcarvers or sculptors. It emphasizes both aesthetic and historical knowledge, alongside practical woodcarving skills. Graduates gain the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in carving, including ornamental woodcarving techniques, gilding techniques, drawing and design, art history and theory, conservation, and professional practice.
Program Outline
BA (Hons) Carving: Woodcarving & Gilding
Degree Overview:
This three-year program prepares students for careers in architectural heritage as professional woodcarvers or sculptors. It emphasizes both aesthetic and historical knowledge, alongside practical woodcarving skills. The program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in carving.
Outline:
The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Ornamental woodcarving techniques: Students learn traditional hand-carving techniques, including carving in the round, relief carving, and chip carving.
- Gilding techniques: Students learn various gilding techniques, including water gilding, oil gilding, and burnishing.
- Drawing and design: Students develop their drawing and design skills through a variety of exercises and projects.
- Art history and theory: Students gain an understanding of the history of woodcarving and gilding, as well as contemporary theoretical approaches to the field.
- Conservation: Students learn basic conservation principles and techniques for the care and restoration of woodcarvings.
- Professional practice: Students learn about the business aspects of being a professional woodcarver or sculptor, including marketing, pricing, and client relations. The program is structured as follows:
- Year 1: Students focus on developing basic skills and knowledge in woodcarving and gilding.
- Year 2: Students further develop their skills and knowledge, and begin to specialize in a particular area of woodcarving or gilding.
- Year 3: Students complete a major project, which allows them to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a professional context.
Assessment:
- Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including coursework, essays, presentations, and practical examinations.
- The major project is a significant component of the final assessment.
Teaching:
- The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified professionals who are active in the field of woodcarving and gilding.
- The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, demonstrations, workshops, and individual tutorials.
- Students have access to a dedicated woodcarving and gilding studio, equipped with a range of tools and materials.
Careers:
Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of settings, including:
- Architectural practices
- Conservation studios
- Fine art studios
- Museums and galleries
- Self-employment as a professional woodcarver or sculptor
Other:
- The program is validated by Ravensbourne University London. From September 2024, it will be validated by Arts University Bournemouth.
- The program offers a range of grants and bursaries to assist students with the cost of tuition.
- The program welcomes students from all backgrounds and levels of experience. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
City & Guilds of London Art School
Overview:
City & Guilds of London Art School is a unique, not-for-profit art school located in Kennington, London. Established in 1879, it is renowned for its specialist focus on contemporary Fine Art, Architectural Stone Carving, Gilding and Wood Carving, and the Conservation of cultural artifacts. The school prides itself on its heritage, high standards, expertise, and student-centered approach.
Services Offered:
City & Guilds of London Art School offers a range of academic programs, including:
BA (Hons) Degree Programs:
- Fine Art
- Illustration
- Conservation (Stone, Wood, Decorative Surfaces, Books & Paper)
- Historic Carving (Woodcarving & Gilding)
MA Postgraduate Degree Programs:
- Fine Art
- Conservation
- Carving
Short Courses:
- Summer School
- Evening Courses
- Study Abroad
- Masterclasses
Foundation Diploma in Art & Design:
A one-year program preparing students for further study in various art and design fields.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at City & Guilds of London Art School can expect:
Intensive Teaching:
Full-time courses run 5 days a week with generous staff-to-student ratios.Dedicated Studios:
Each student has access to their own workspace, along with specialist technical facilities.Supportive Community:
A close-knit student and staff community fosters a collaborative and supportive environment.London Location:
The school's central location provides easy access to London's museums, galleries, and cultural attractions.Industry Links:
The school has strong partnerships with major institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, Museum of London, and British Museum, offering opportunities for work placements and collaborations.Key Reasons to Study There:
Specialist Focus:
The school's unique focus on specific areas of art and craft provides in-depth knowledge and skills development.Active Professionals:
Teaching is delivered by practicing artists, carvers, and conservators, offering real-world experience and insights.Generous Studios:
Students benefit from spacious studios and access to specialist equipment.Supportive Environment:
The small scale and close-knit community foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment.London Location:
The school's central location provides access to London's cultural resources and opportunities.Academic Programs:
The school's academic programs are highly respected and have a proven track record. Key strengths include:
Contemporary Fine Art:
The Fine Art program emphasizes contemporary practice and encourages exploration and innovation.Conservation:
The Conservation program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various materials and techniques.Historic Carving:
The Carving program is the only full-time program in the UK at this level, specializing in woodcarving and gilding.Foundation Diploma:
The Foundation Diploma provides a strong foundation for further study in art and design.Other:
- The school is committed to providing high levels of contact teaching time with active professionals.
- It offers a student-centered approach, encouraging individual growth and exceeding expectations.
- The school benefits from philanthropy, providing bursaries, scholarships, and work placements.
- It maintains active communication with alumni, many of whom have successful careers in art, craft, and conservation.
- If you are interested in learning more about the entry requirements for this program, you can visit the school's website or contact the admissions office directly.
