Students taking the Leaving Certificate examination from 2023 will be following the new revised course. The course requires students to research, create and respond to their own art and the work of other artists.
Exam Structure
This is demonstrated through a coursework project, an invigilated practical examination, and a written exam paper.
Practical coursework Project 50%
Practical invigilated examination 20%
Visual Studies Written examination 30%
The Art course for Leaving Certificate consists of two parts. The Coursework (practical) and Visual Studies (Art History).
Coursework
Imaginative composition/Still life and the craft. Students will complete a coursework project. They will explore a theme, document their research, produce a range of drawings made from primary sources, produce development (planning) pages for two finished pieces. They will realise one finished piece during this body of time and the second finished piece will be completed during a 5 hour invigilated examination.
Visual Studies
Students will complete a written examination on Visual studies based on their thoughts, knowledge, and observations of work by professional artists and imagery in wider visual media.
This subject would suit a student who is experimental, enthusiastic, resilient, independent, imaginative, and organised. Time management, listening skills and communication skills are extremely important for this subject.
Assessment and results and other points
The number of students receiving H1 and H2’s has increased in recent years.
The art history will be assessed with all other written papers during the LC exams.
All the practical work will be assessed by a visiting examiner.
The time frame for the practical work is 10 weeks from January onwards in 6th year.
It clearly states on the circulars from the Department that all the work should be done in school and parents and students should not be concerned that the project will eat into the other subjects time.
It is also a much better system for students who work slowly of have great difficulty performing under pressure as now the work is progressive rather than exam based.
Students who are preparing a portfolio for Art College will find that the new revised syllabus will benefit and work in their favour, and some of their classwork may be viable in their portfolio.
For pupils who are studying architecture or related courses - Art and DCG is an excellent combination.
Overall the new course encourages greater individuality and creativity.
Further Progression
Art can be great preparation for any career that requires fine motor skills, presentation skills, an eye for aesthetics and creative thinking. There are many diverse possibilities – Artist, , architect, product designer, interior designer, packaging designer urban designer/town planner, set designer, industrial designer, illustrator, art therapist, fashion designer/dressmaker, surgeon, teacher, advertising director, photographer, animator, concept artist, web designer, television/film producer, editor, museum curator, special effects makeup, photo journalist, curriculum writer, art critic, arts administrator, arts and cultural planner, courtroom artist, stylist, art dealer, art supplies retailer.