Illustration Animation BA (Hons) – Kingston University
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Kingston University is ranked No. 1 in the UK for design and crafts* in the Guardian University League Tables 2020 (*covers graphic design, interior design, illustration, animation and product and furniture design.)
This course combines two subjects to give you creative freedom for visual thinking, expression and communication. Illustration has expanded from the traditional printed page to explore many forms of visual media including digital interaction and virtual reality, objects, spaces and environments. We celebrate the cross-pollination of ideas and skills through the hybrid nature of the course. You’ll benefit from dedicated studio spaces and the opportunity for collaboration between illustration and animation.
Built around drawing, the course is carefully structured to develop your individual voice, applying content to image communication to reach an audience. We encourage learning through making and you’ll have access to all our workshops, from etching, ceramics to digital fabric printing, enabling you to test and prototype.
Group and individual assignments and presentations develop the range of skills essential to contemporary practice in all forms of applied image making. Projects with industry will test and shape your understanding in real world situations. Staff practitioners and alumni networks offer insight and contacts with international creative practice, including study visits and placements.
This BA (Hons) Illustration Animation course has a reputation for producing graduates who go on to be top practitioners in illustration and animation, as well as design direction and a broad range of creative careers.
Course Content
Year 1
Year 1 encourages an open-minded and exploratory approach to illustration animation. You'll be introduced to idea development, visual research, and image and content relationships. Drawing, animation, digital crafts, presentation techniques, life drawing and location workshops are all taught. There is an optional field trip to destinations such as New York, Berlin or Florence. Eligible students will be supported with a travel bursary.-
Introductory Principles
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Working Methods
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Research Recording and Presentation
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Image & Text – Communication Design History for Illustration and Animation
Year 2
Year 2 enables you to explore different ways of communicating your ideas. You'll learn how to critically challenge subjects and develop your personal direction. You'll work on set and self-initiated projects, developing your ability to create effective solutions.-
Process and Purpose
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Illustration Studio OR Animation Studio
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Context and Presentation
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Critical Issues in Illustration and Animation: Research and Practice
Year 3
Year 3 focuses on the development and resolution of a personal practice, with an awareness of professional contexts. A series of set and live assignments will inform your self-initiated extended project. Helping you with your individual presentation will be industry research and engagement combined with web, portfolio, showreel and curatorial workshops.-
Practice and Realisation
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Professional Practice and Presentation
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Dissertation: Research and Reflection
