(Hons) Textiles

TextilesDegree Handbook

2 BA (Hons) Textiles

Open College of the ArtsMichael Young Arts Centre

Redbrook Business ParkWilthorpe Road

Barnsley S75 1JN

0800 731 [email protected]

weareoca.comoca.ac.uk

Registered charity number: 327446OCA is a company limited by guarantee and

registered in England under number 2125674.

Copyright OCA: 2016

Document Control Number: DH_160216

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise - without

prior permission of the publisher (Open College of the Arts)


Contents

Degree informationCourse Title: BA (Hons) TextilesDegree aimsDegree outcomes

Degree structureDegree Pathway

Programme summaryIntroduction

Learning and teaching Learning and teaching strategyPDPIndependent learningOnline learningTime framesEmployability

Additional resourcesStudy visitsUnit materialsStudy GuidesReading ListsBlogsFormative and diagnostic feedback

AssessmentAssessment methodsAssessment criteria

Level four unitsStudent profile

Level five unitsStudent profile

Level six unitsStudent profile


Degree information

Course Title: BA (Hons) Textiles

Degree aimsThe main educational aims of the BA (Hons) Textiles are to:1. Widen access to education in textiles at undergraduate level through Open and Flexible

Learning.2. Ensure students gain the traditional skills in textiles to form a solid foundation for

further development.3. Provide an intellectually stimulating programme of study based on high quality study

material and tutor support.4. Develop students’ creative capacities and their ability in interpretation and application. 5. Develop students’ critical understanding of the theoretical and conceptual issues

central to the practice of textiles and the social, historical and cultural context in which it is practiced.

6. Provide an environment in which the student has the possibility of changing their view of the world and their interaction with it both visually and intellectually.

7. Foster high-level ethical and professional standards and an awareness of the possibilities offered by existing and new developments in textiles to expand their application areas.

8. To develop autonomous learners capable of applying intellectual and practical skills in a chosen area of textiles appropriate to employment, further study, or life-long learning.

Did you know?With our flexible open learning approach you enrol on one course or one level at a time as you study towards your degree. The degree pathway sets out the options for you to study, allowing you to tailor what you study as your interests develop.


Degree outcomesUpon successful completion of the course students are able to:

Knowledge and Understanding1. Demonstrate proficiency in a comprehensive range of textiles practices and techniques. 2. Manage the learning process resourcefully and independently and make appropriate

use primary sources and scholarly reviews.3. Demonstrate by means of written work and oral presentations a critical understanding

of the principles of textile art and knowledge of emerging aspects of the discipline and those at the forefront of debate.

4. Critically and objectively evaluate own work (and the work of others).

Application1. Demonstrate a breadth of inventiveness, ideas generation and techniques in the

creation of textiles, and the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise ideas.2. Handle ambiguity and uncertainty effectively, demonstrating problem solving

techniques and interpretive skills.3. Produce a body of work demonstrating a high level of visual and technical finish and

the development of a personal language as a textiles artist or designer.4. Communicate information and justify art work convincingly to specialist and non-

specialist audiences, developing your knowledge of market forces in the textile market. 5. Engage in appropriate professional practices such as marketing, self-presentation and

negotiation skills.6. Operate in professional contexts that are relevant to your practice, requiring the

application of specific interpersonal, professional and business skills within an ethical framework.

Degree structure

The diagram below shows the structure of the degree, and how many units you must study at each level. Use the Pathway on the next page to select the units you wish to study.

Textiles Degree PathwayTextiles Degree Pathway

OCA Level 1 units (HE Level 4)Total credits 120

You need three units at this LevelThere is one mandatory unit:

Mandatory UnitTextiles 1: A Textiles Vocabulary

TextilesNow choose one or two of the following:Textiles 1: Exploring IdeasTextiles 1: Mixed Media for Textiles*Textiles 1: Ideas and Processes

If you still only have two units, choose one additional unit from the list below:

History of Art: Understanding Western ArtVisual Studies: Understanding Visual CultureVisual Studies: Creative Arts Today


You need two units at this LevelChoose two of the units listed below.

TextilesTextiles 2: Developing Creative TextilesTextiles 2: Contemporary Practice*Textiles 2: Contemporary Context


You need three units at this LevelYou will need to do all the units listed below.

Mandatory UnitsTextiles 3: Personal SpecialismTextiles 3: ResearchTextiles 3: Sustaining your Practice

* Additional units will be added during the period 1 September 2015 to 31 August 2020.


Textiles student, Ailish Henderson

Did you know?As an Open College of the Arts student, you are eligible to apply for student discount such as NUS (http://www.nus.org.uk/en/) and Unidays (https://www.myunidays.com/). Visit this website to view more offers and discount codes https://www.studentbeans.com/.


BA(Hons) Textiles

Programme summary

Textiles student, Armajeet Nandhra


Introduction

This course is for students who wish to focus their studies on textiles and develop the intellectual, practical and transferable skills that will enable them to become independent designer makers of contemporary textiles and accessories or practice as artists using textiles as their media to develop a personal artistic vision or voice.

Both share the same studies until Level 6 where choices allow the student to pursue a personal direction.

Studies at Levels 4 and 5 guide students through stages to develop innovative work, showing technical, creative and analytical skills by using a structured approach that is process driven. The final assignment for each unit gives the student the opportunity for personal project work using visual and contextual research. There is an emphasis on the development of judgment to enable understanding and use of the range of materials and the techniques required to create work that is both individual in its concept and shows attention to quality, purpose and good craftsmanship. The balance of the units at Levels 4 and 5 reflect the broad scope of textiles in relation to new technology and traditional skills, cultural and historical references, sustainability and ethical concerns, and responds to the work of twentieth and twenty first century artists and designers. The course provides the opportunity to acquire a range of hand craft skills, and at level 5 to work with computer generated ideas. Students can also design their own work-based blogs to share with other students on the OCA websites.

The units at Level 6 enable students to focus on their personal interests to further develop their own individual voice using approaches that may be conceptual, relate to the market place, the environment etc. In the Professional Practice unit, students consider their work in terms of market and exhibiting opportunities, networking, working to commission, publicity and personal profiles and websites.

Learning logs or blogs reinforce and question elements of the course and record students’ own progress, thereby developing their ability for critique and self evaluation. They are seen as integral to the student’s study and help the tutor gain a better insight into the student’s own learning methods and aspirations.

Individual needs are supported throughout by a one to one relationship with a specialist tutor.

The overall aim of this course is to help students to fulfill their creative potential through a continually updated program that takes into the account the changing world from perspectives that are both cultural and environmental. These skills and experience will provide a valuable head start in furthering a career or continuing studies at a higher level.


Learning and teaching

Learning and teaching strategyThe Open College of the Arts offers all students the same quality of core learning experience, and supports a broad range of student expectations and needs through its open and flexible learning environment. The OCA provides high quality and stimulating learning materials and resources to meet the needs of students learning at a distance, and adopts learning strategies that help students develop the skills necessary for autonomous learning.

PDPPersonal and professional development has been linked to all levels of the course through the learning log to help support students to plan, integrate and take responsibility for their personal, career and academic development.

The log is used as a tool for self-reflection to document and reflect on progress, and to reflect on tutor feedback. In dialogue with tutors through formative feedback, students are encouraged to identify strengths and learning needs, and establish learning goals that might improve perceived weaknesses and enhance strengths.

Individual units at level 6 all have outcomes that specifically relate to skills transferable to the workplace, through engagement with client led or self-initiated projects located in external contexts. The learning at levels 4 and 5 support this engagement through a process of identifying opportunities relevant to student’s needs, goals, and ambitions.

The OCA are committed, over the next two years, to developing and incorporating further professional practice sections in our units at Levels 2 and 3 (HE Levels 5 and 6).

Independent learningThe Art and Design Benchmarks say that: ‘Active learning through project-based enquiry has always been a feature of the art and design curriculum in higher education. Through this approach students have been encouraged to develop both the capacity for independent learning and the ability to work with others.’ Through the OCA model of open learning units, providing projects and research activities, students learn to study independently, while backed up by tutor support, and learn to work with others by interacting with them, providing and receiving support and exchanging ideas on the OCA forum.

Online learningEach unit has a number of web-based resources designed to broaden student’s appreciation of the range of practice and contemporary debate on the discipline. OCA students have access to the V & A image collection and use of the Creative Commons on Flickr as well as access to the Bridgeman Education image library, from which they may download images for comment, or to include in learning logs. Students are encouraged to keep learning blogs if they have access to the internet, so that they can share their reflections and learning online with other students, and discuss these with others on the OCA forum.

In addition OCA is piloting the use of Google hangouts so that students can meet together online for critique sessions.


Time framesThe flexibility of the OCA means you can complete your degree to suit you, taking anything from 3 to 12 years. The full degree programme must be completed in 12 years.Interested in this degree?

EmployabilityThe OCA is fully aware of the importance of degrees having a relevance to the world of work. However, the context for an employability audit is different for the OCA than it is for a traditional campus based HE provider, with a very broad range of ages of students, motivations to study, and varying personal circumstances. OCA’s aim is to instill in its students a creative ethos and the ability to structure creative practice and the motivation to continue their practice. For many students this will mean that they continue to exhibit and publish their work for others it will mean progression to post-graduate study in the field.

Textiles student, Esther Ward


Additional learning and teaching resources

Study visitsThere are a number of optional Study Visits led by OCA tutors throughout the year.

Unit materialsThe written unit materials have been specifically produced for distance learning delivery and are designed for individual self-study. They consist of subject-specific learning content and a series of learning projects each culminating in an assignment, the results of which are discussed with the tutor. The unit materials contain a balance of practical exercises and large scale projects and research points.

Study GuidesThere are guides on keeping sketchbooks, writing learning logs, study skills, and keeping blogs, among others. All of these are sent to the students at the beginning of the programme and are also available as downloads form the OCA website.

Reading ListsThe BA programme has a comprehensive study list composed of key texts, journals and websites for each unit. At higher levels, when students undertake their own projects, reading lists are negotiated with tutors.

BlogsMost students keep logs in the form of online blogs. Their public status allows opinions to be expressed by fellow students, or the general public if desired, on the work being produced. Being accessible to other students, they offer a wide range of interpretations of unit projects to be seen, read and commented upon by others, allowing learning to take place through social activity centered around a programme of study. The address of the blog is submitted at assessment time, instead of a physical learning log.

Formative and diagnostic feedbackOngoing guidance and formative feedback on assignments is given by the student’s tutor and offers clear guidance with regard to future development. A copy of each tutor feedback report given to the student is logged with OCA in order that OCA can monitor tutor quality and performance.

Find out moreVisit http://weareoca.com/category/study_visits/ to look at our most recent study visits


Assessment

Assessment methods There are no examinations. Assessment is through the examination of personal development planning and continual reflection in learning logs or blogs, practical projects, critical reviews and essays. Assessment tasks are linked to the objectives of each unit. As the student progresses through the unit the assessment increasingly encourages autonomous learning and self-evaluation. Tutors provide feedback during the unit, with constructive criticism, and assessment takes place once the student has completed a unit in full. Students are assumed to be planning to enter for assessment unless it is identified at the beginning of the unit that the student does not have this aspiration. The personal tutor works with the student to advise them on the assessment process. The student uses OCA guidelines to prepare a portfolio complete with sketchbooks and learning logs (or blog) to send to OCA for assessment. This submission includes the summative assignments of each section of the unit. Assessment takes place three times per year.

Assessment criteriaThe textiles degree has overarching assessment criteria, these trace the development of the work as outlined in the units.

Demonstration of technical and Visual SkillsMaterials, techniques, observational skills, visual awareness, design and compositional skills

Level 4: 40%Level 5: 35%Level 6: 20%

Quality of OutcomeContent, application of knowledge, presentation of work in a coherent manner, discernment, conceptualisation of thoughts, communication of ideas


Demonstration of CreativityImagination, experimentation, invention, development of a personal voice


ContextReflection, research, critical thinking (learning logs and, at levels 5 and 6, critical reviews and essays)



BA (Hons) Textiles

Level four units

Textiles student, Penni Redding


Saadet PayneTextiles 1 student

"I wanted to study Textiles, but the increase in university fees, family and work commitments ruled out full time education. I enrolled OCA in September 2009, which offered flexibility and affordability. I had a nervous start but my tutor encouraged me to research, draw, experiment, and reflect. Learning new techniques and focusing on the process as much as the outcome, my confidence grew alongside my practice. Meeting new people, sharing experiences and tips have been inspiring. I could only integrate textiles into my life through flexible studying. OCA provided me with this opportunity and now I feel I’m in my element."


Textiles 1: A Textiles Vocabulary | 40 credits

This unit will develop your creative skills-base for textiles. It will enable you to analyse and study archive textiles and creatively develop visual ideas for contemporary textiles in response to imagery, pattern, composition, structure and surface. You will be introduced to various approaches of analysing and interpreting colour and be encouraged to experiment with a range of media to prompt yarn explorations as well as produce simple textile translations.

The unit concentrates on creative design methodology and is underpinned by observation. Part One will develop your understanding of textile qualities using historic and contemporary references and develop your understanding textile fabrication through drawing and visual research. Part Two will build on this research and prompt textile translations through image, stitch and fabric customisation as small and large-scale work. Part Three will allow you to analyse colour from different sources; translate these using paint, collage and yarn; and, produce a colour sample book to inspire new work in the final units. Part Four will enable you to create experimental yarns and linear structures using traditional and non-traditional textile materials. Part Five will explore some of these ideas as simple textile structures and surface design ideas. Throughout this course you will be encouraged to reflect on your work and develop evaluate skills.

Indicative syllabus content• Archive studies • Fabric and stitch• Colour vocabulary• Yarn exploration• Textiles and Colour

AimsThe unit aims to:• allow you to explore archive textiles through observational drawing and develop textile

design ideas• introduce you to ways of recording and using colour from different sources using a

range of media• develop your awareness of traditional and non-traditional yarns types and simple textile

sampling• develop your reflective skills and evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches.

Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• develop visual ideas to show a personal interpretation for textile-based work• demonstrate sensitivity in the translation and handling of colour• use a range of textile media and techniques to creatively develop design ideas• reflect upon your own learning experience in the context of your studies.


Textiles 1: Ideas and Processes | 40 credits

This unit will start with an introduction into how artists and designers use internal and external worlds as a resource for creative ideas. The students will be led through a series of examples demonstrating how artists research and record information which they later translate into their art.

This will lead onto the students choosing an area of interest that they will study in depth during the course. This will be achieved through collection and investigation methods, including photography, drawing and mark making. A range of drawing and mark making techniques will be explained so that the student will be able to form their own interesting surfaces. From these preliminary drawing exercises the students will be taken through using collage, print, painting and stitch techniques to develop ideas and translate the work into textiles.

Throughout the course the students will record and evaluate their own progress by means of a learning log/blog, therefore advancing skills in analysis and critical thinking.

During this unit the students will write a critical essay based on research they will have conducted into a specific number of textile artists and designers. They will be looking at how these artists generate ideas and the processes used to translate the ideas into art works/designs. The students will analyse the effectiveness of the methods and consider how these practices may impact on their work.

Finally the students will create a group of final pieces between A1 and A2 in size to demonstrate the skills and expertise they have learnt throughout this unit.

Textiles student, Penni Redding


Indicative syllabus content• The development of an understanding of the creative process• Research as a bases for creativity• Research to broaden understanding and knowledge• Drawing and mark making to generate ideas• Translating preliminary drawings into textile samples • Recording and evaluating own progress

AimsThe aims of this unit are:• develop an understanding of the creative process• explore a range of approaches to drawing and mark making• introduce textiles techniques that generate texture, tone, composition and line• establish basic skills in research, analysis and critical writing• to develop skills in recording and evaluating personal progress.

Learning outcomesOn satisfactory completion of the unit you will be able to:• establish skills in generating ideas through drawing and mark making• demonstrate a creative use of a broad spectrum of textile techniques• use methods of research to inspire creativity and broaden knowledge• write with an elemental understanding of the creative process• competently reflect and analyse own personal development and creativity.


Textiles 1: Mixed Media for Textiles | 40 credits

This unit will establish the use of mixed media to develop skills in sample making that encourage the student to be innovative, curious and creative. It will enable students to explore materials, medium and methods as a way of developing design outcomes. Students will understand the value of risk taking and serendipity in the design process. They will develop creative and effective record keeping, which will include evaluating and sorting their work. The purpose and practice of broad and thorough research will be introduced. Extensive use of drawing will be expected in all parts of the design process.

Indicative syllabus content• Mixed media materials and techniques• Sample making• Sketchbook development• Material analysis• Recording outcomes• Research

AimsThe unit aims to:• introduce sample making as a method of developing textile design ideas• explore a number of different ways to manipulate materials• introduce exploratory print making techniques• establish skills in researching artists and designers appropriate to this course• effectively record design outcomes, evaluate sample making methods and materials.

Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• Explore ways to use mixed media for textiles based outcomes• Establish an understanding of the importance of sample and prototype making when

developing design ideas• Demonstrate the use of researching contemporary and historical artists and designers

when developing design ideas• Use reflective thinking to develop an understanding of personal creativity


History of Art 1: Understanding Western Art | 40 credits

The unit aim is to understand the cultural and historical context of art and develop observational skills using drawing, annotation and photography and to be able to work with a systematic structure for analysing, researching and recording information that can be applied to any art form.

The unit enables you to observe acutely, appreciate and analyse works of art through the study of a written text. The unit presents art history in chronological order, from classical times to the 20th century. You are encouraged to respond to works of art not just by essay-writing but by using any skills in drawing, photography or painting you may have. The unit leads you through annotation exercises. This activity helps you to get into the habit of devoting considerable time and thought to particular works of art, rather than giving them cursory attention.

Indicative syllabus content• The Classical tradition• Gothic and Renaissance• Baroque• Romanticism to Impressionism• The twentieth century• Still-life, portraits, the figure, interiors and landscapes

AimsThe aims of this unit are to:• introduce you to the history of western art • develop your research skills to analyse works of art • develop a structured and critical method to recording your observations and research• use reflection to develop your learning

Learning outcomesOn satisfactory completion of the unit you will be able to:• discuss artistic movements within the history of western art• research and analyse works of art• demonstrate your ability to summarise key information in a methodical way and to

research and record key points• reflect upon your own learning experience.


Visual Studies 1: Understanding Visual Culture | 40 credits

This unit is an introduction to a complex field of study. It takes you through the core theories that underpin a contemporary understanding of visual culture, looking at theories about how we look at the world and understand the visual vocabulary that describes it. The unit focuses on the practical application of those theories and will provide a sound introduction to the subject in an interdisciplinary fashion. The unit looks at the ideas in Structuralism, Post-Structuralism and Post Modernism. You will be introduced and guided to a clear understanding of the key texts in the study of visual culture. You will be required to research a variety of subjects and will therefore need access to the Internet as a research resource.

Indicative syllabus content• An understanding of the parameters of visual studies.• An introduction to the major themes that underpin the discipline (e.g. signs and

symbols)• Experience in the application of theory to projects (looking and subjectivity and

concepts of reality)

AimsThe aims of this unit are to:• introduce you to visual and cultural theory• enable you to use cultural theories to explore visual culture in contemporary society• improve your research skills and become familiar with key sources, and develop an

understanding of critical and artistic theories• develop your reflective skills and your ability to document your reflections.

Learning outcomesOn satisfactory completion of the unit you will be able to:• investigate and identify appropriate sources of information for the study of visual

culture in relationship to contemporary cultural theorists• through investigation develop an understanding of the critical, theoretical and artistic

developments in visual culture• demonstrate through your writing research skills and an understanding of forms and

modes of gathering information• reflect upon your own learning.


Visual Studies 1: Creative Arts Today | 40 credits

This unit is a broad-based introduction to a range of contemporary creative arts for students new to the creative arts. It explores some ways in which two key themes (place/space and time/journey) are explored in the fields of art (painting and drawing), creative writing, textiles, visual communications (illustration, graphic design) and photography and looks at how different creative disciplines interact. It introduces basic research tools and techniques in the creative arts; students will therefore need access to the internet. Students are made aware of the theoretical underpinning to the creative arts in preparation for more detailed study at Level 2. Exercises and assignments will require students to research, evaluate and write about artworks in a range of disciplines; practical exercises are optional.

Indicative syllabus content• An awareness and basic knowledge of a broad range of creative arts, including

contemporary art, creative writing, textiles, visual communications and photography.• Experience in exploring two key themes through the creative arts and some

interrelationships between creative disciplines studied.• An awareness of a theoretical underpinning to the creative arts.• Experience in using key research tools to explore and investigate the creative arts and

application of critical thinking to research material

AimsThe aims of this unit are to:• explore a broad range of contemporary practice in the creative arts • examine a range of creative disciplines through the investigation of contemporary

creative practitioners• introduce you to research skills and key theories in the creative arts• use critical thinking and reflective writing skills to develop your learning

Learning outcomesOn satisfactory completion of the unit you will be able to:• demonstrate an awareness of the broad range of contemporary practice in the creative

arts• discuss the scope and interrelationships across a range of creative disciplines• apply your research skills to explore the theoretical underpinning of the creative arts• reflect upon your own learning experience.


Did you know?The flexibility of the OCA means you can complete your degree to suit you, taking anything from 3 to 12 years. The full degree programme must be completed in 12 years.



BA (Hons) Textiles

Level five units

Textiles student, Jessica Stroud


Priscilla JonesTextiles tutor

"My inspiration comes from a variety of sources exploring the concept of identity, memory and nostalgia. I live close to the sea in Lancashire and adore the colours and reflective light that can only be found in a coastal town.

I have work in both public and private collections and I continuously exhibit my work nationally and internationally including Japan, Europe and the U.S.A. My design portfolio includes designing for greeting cards, fashion/interior fabrics and wallpaper.

I completed my degree in Embroidery at Manchester Metropolitan University in 1997. I went on to study for a Certificate in Education (Post Compulsory) in 2003 at the University of Central Lancashire.

I started teaching in 1997 and have taught in Further, Higher and Adult Education. I also run independent workshops and regularly teach in secondary schools facilitating workshops based around my personal textile practice. I enjoy engaging with students and supporting them to achieve their full potential. Watching them develop and grow in their own practice is such a rewarding experience…"

Find out moreTo view the rest of Priscilla's tutor profile and look at some more, visit www.oca.ac.uk/our-tutors/


Textiles 2: Contemporary Context | 60 credits

This unit builds on the creative skills-base developed in both Textiles 1 courses and will enable you to explore and respond imaginatively to colour through research, design development and textile fabrication. You will develop practical skills within craft-based, specialisms and advance design ideas based on contextual research and awareness of twenty-first century art and design.

Colour will be a particular focus. Part One will allow you to investigate colour and trend forecasting and develop your own colour inspirations as a trend book based on desktop and first hand research. Part Two will allow you to develop an understanding of twenty-first century textiles within the context of contemporary art, design and industry and produce written work based on artists and designers working within the field. Both stages will form the basis of creative design investigations and will prompt the development a range of textiles for specific end uses. The following stages will allow you to explore print as image and pattern-based ideas for interior applications; constructed textiles for gallery-based artwork; and, mixed media solutions for fashion-focussed solutions. The final stage will assist you in assessment preparation.

Indicative syllabus content• Colour trend book• Twenty-first century textiles• Textiles: Print• Textiles: Constructed • Textiles: Mixed media

AimsThe unit aims to:• advance the subject of colour to prompt innovative textile ideas through creative

design methodologies• explore a range of textile craft techniques and progress an individual approach to

problem solving and design development• develop research methodology and analytical skills within the field of contemporary

textiles, fashion and art through practical and theoretical study• develop your ability to review and analyse your work within the context of the course

aims.


Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• Creatively apply the principles of colour and trend forecasting and develop a range of

new ideas for textiles in response to personal inspiration• Demonstrate creative design development within craft-based textiles and produce

innovative solutions for product end-uses within set projects• Critically review the work of artists, designers, cultural influences and industry that have

contributed to the development of contemporary textiles• Critically review your work against course aims and within the context of contemporary

art and design.



Textiles 2: Contemporary Practice | 60 credits

This unit enables you to focus on your individual approach to design using textile techniques as a medium to incorporate innovative tactile and visual ideas. It provides the opportunity for in-depth visual research alongside the development of an awareness of environmental issues, new materials and processes and potential markets. You are free to create design-based or conceptual art pieces. The unit is project based and contextual studies, history and cultural understanding are embedded into the projects. There are no instructions for specific textile techniques but references to technical information are provided where necessary. At this stage it is expected that you will wish to continue to develop your own choice of skills and projects are designed to allow for that development to take place.

Finished work in the form of project pieces is given greater emphasis. Students are guided through the process of developing a finished piece, through research, drawing and sampling, making prototypes and applying finishing processes where appropriate. At each stage students are required to evaluate their work The unit will include the research and investigations necessary to identify specific markets, colour forecasts or the appropriateness of exhibition space and location for one or more of the project pieces. Students do regular learning log work on historical and contemporary textiles and this includes investigations into new materials and processes.

Students are introduced to digital technology at a basic level and encouraged to explore this as a potential tool and as a further means to developing creative ideas. Students are not required to purchase additional specialist software but explore the potential of manipulating imagery using scanning techniques and Photoshop. It is appreciated that not all students will wish to develop these skills beyond this and a further unit dealing specifically with digital applications in textiles is being considered for future development for those students that show aptitude and interest.


AimsThe unit aims to:• extend work done in Textiles 1 by introducing new and innovative techniques and

further developing activities of particular interest in greater breadth and depth, both visually and technically

• develop your awareness of environmental issues, sustainability and market forces in relationship to textiles

• develop your ability to work autonomously and design your own project work• improve your ability to critically review and analyse contemporary artists and art

movements.

Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• select and evaluate a range of textile media and techniques to develop innovative

solutions to set projects and self-generated projects• demonstrate a critical awareness of environmental concerns, new materials and market

forces and understand the diversity of textiles both in practice and in historical and cultural contexts

• demonstrate increasing independence in the execution of your work and greater responsibility for your learning

• critically review the environmental context of the work of a contemporary textile artist.

Indicative syllabus content• Ecological issues and sustainability in textiles, including a practical project using

recycled materials to create a design-based product or a conceptual art piece.• The use and properties of new materials.• Using basic digital technology as a creative tool: manipulating imagery using scanning

techniques and Photoshop.• Museum study as a historical, contextual and visual resource for textile design.• Identifying potential markets and display locations for textile work.


BA (Hons) Textiles

Level six units

Textiles student, Laura Lee Sang


Ruth GouryTextiles 2 student

"I began studying with the OCA in 2012. I chose the OCA as it gave me the option of studying in Nigeria, at my own pace and allowed time for other commitments, whilst giving me a qualification recognized in the UK.

Working through the different assignments has encouraged me to fine tune existing skills and techniques, underpinning experimental practice with different materials and trying new methods which I have found exciting.

The feedback and support from tutors, whilst sometimes painful has been crucial to my continued development, encouraging me to push myself and not accept the easy route."

Find out moreTo view more student profiles, visit http://www.oca.ac.uk/our-students/


Textiles 3: Personal Specialism | 40 credits

This unit builds on the learning and the breadth of skills experience undertaken at previous levels and provides an opportunity to advance specialist skills in a chosen textile discipline.

The textile course has at the previous levels given a broad experience to a range of processes and skills. This unit offers the opportunity to advance and/ or extend the potential of any one or a combination of these disciplines as appropriate to your needs and personal interests. It could also give the opportunity to extend skills in application of your own work to, interiors, products, fashion and fashion accessories or the requirements of site-specific works.

In consultation with your tutor, you will devise a programme of work that allows you to research areas of personal interest and at the same time will lead you to develop and advance your chosen discipline in more depth.

The focus will be on improving the quality and scope of your work, to further develop your personal visual language, and apply your technical skills with increasing professional understanding.

The unit will support your continued development of your interpretive and design skills, development of ideas and your own visual language and identity. The learning log will be used to document and reflect on the learning journey, to critically evaluate how your work connects with the market forces, towards commission work and /or exhibition opportunities for textile art works.


AimsThe unit aims to:• Enable you to apply creative problem solving and interpretive skills at an advanced level• Develop your personal visual language, making use of specialist skills and knowledge• Deepen your understanding and knowledge of both the technical scope and contextual

understanding of the subject• Support you to undertake a sustained project, developing ideas, research, and

addressing the application of skill and quality into finished outcomes• further develop your understanding of professional practice.

Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• demonstrate the use of analysis and creative thinking in interpreting and responding to

self-initiated and/or commission led projects• show proficiency in using personal visual language and practical work (samples) to

communicate ideas effectively• determine both the technical scope and a critical and contextual understanding of a

chosen textile processes• establish the ability to develop ideas, sustain a project from its inception to a final

outcomes that take into account the audience and/ or requirements of the client• demonstrate an understanding of how your own work connects with market forces,

commission work and /or exhibition opportunities for textile art works

Indicative syllabus content• Technical advancement of the chosen subject area• An overview of the technical and design process; looking at the contemporary,

historical or ethnographical context.• Artists and designers working in your chosen discipline.• The relationship and appropriateness of raw material to product; Choice and use of

materials ( traditional, sustainable, recycled and future)• Scale and site specific requirements• 2 and 3 dimensional work• Colour and style forecasting to meet market needs.• Developing a personal visual language through visual research and idea development

techniques.• Working to a brief; (self-initiated or commission led), developing analytical skills;

developing ideas into finished textile work.


Textiles 3: Research | 40 credits

Textiles 3 comprises three closely linked units: the first of these, Personal Specialism, involves intensive studio practice and informs this research and written unit Research, followed by the third and final unit Professional Practice. The Textiles 3: Contextual Studies unit will enable you to develop skills in research and writing about art, alongside critical awareness of a range of contemporary art practices. This is achieved by extending your knowledge of primary and secondary research methodologies, and the adoption of appropriate styles of academic writing, using consistent referencing and presentation skills. The dissertation will show the necessary critical and contextual awareness of level 6 academic studies. The Research unit underpins and strengthens the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired in previous units and represents an opportunity to synthesise theory and practice through a self-initiated research project of an appropriate standard for this level.

This unit encourages a high degree of self-motivation and autonomy. The written work prepared for assignments will be used to support the development of self-reflection, critique, time/project management and academic rigour.

With tutorial support, this is a self-directed unit, encouraging a high degree of self-motivation and autonomy, and is structured to support the process of undertaking substantial textual and written research, with the aim of developing contextual and conceptual awareness of your own practice and the practices of others.

In consultation with your tutor you will prepare a proposal (1000 words) for research that will culminate in an extended written project or dissertation (5000 words). This complements the programme of practical work from the other two units within Textiles 3.

Did you know?That the University of the Creative Arts validates all of the Open College of the Arts degrees.


Indicative syllabus content• Research skills; introduction to research methodologies, primary and secondary

research, undertaking written and visual research; exploring approaches to documenting research.

• Critical frameworks: identifying a range of appropriate theoretical and critical frameworks; outlining and signposting to major ideas, theories and debates around practice of textiles.

• Documentation: academic writing skills; identifying, sources and analysing appropriate source material; developing analytical and evaluative skills.

AimsThe unit aims to:• establish a high level of synthesis between theory and practice• effectively develop a body of visual / practical research• explore a range of methods of research, analysis and critical evaluation of theories and

practices• develop your approaches to the documentation and communication of research

findings.

Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• analyse, evaluate, and synthesise ideas that relate to both theory and practice• construct a written argument that informs and is informed by practical and visual

investigations and focused upon areas of personal interest• demonstrate an advanced and detailed understanding of subject knowledge and its

context, some of which will be informed by recent research into textiles disciplines• demonstrate the use of appropriate primary and secondary sources as part of a range

of research methodologies, and produce a written body of work, relevant to chosen subject area, showing skills in documentation and presentation


Textiles 3: Sustaining Your Practice | 40 credits

This unit represents the culmination of the knowledge, understanding and skills acquired throughout your study on the course and provides an opportunity to undertake a major project, present your work to a professional standard, and identify appropriate progression routes into self-employment, professional practice or continued education.

This is a self-directed unit, structured to support the process of undertaking a substantial self-initiated or self-selected project, preparing work for presentation and developing a contextual awareness of your practice. The major project can take the form of self-directed, and / or working to commission or a specified market.

By this stage in your course you should have already come some decisions about the form that your practice will take either a textile artist or as a designer maker and you will be encouraged to explore the contextual location of your practice through researching, or work-related learning in your practice areas. This unit will support that decision by identifying potential progression routes relevant to your individual practice and circumstances and develop the necessary strategies, self-promotion, personal statements and presentation skills to help realize your aims. You will be encouraged to develop a portfolio of work to present to a wider audience, for example, submission for membership of professional exhibiting societies, exhibition venues, and selling opportunities, or other appropriate means.

This unit encourages a high degree of self-motivation and autonomy. The learning log and assignments will be used to support the development of self-reflection, critique, time management and professionalism.

Textiles student, Ruth Goury


Learning outcomesOn successful completion of the unit you will be able to:• produce a body of work demonstrating a high level of visual aesthetic and technical

understanding of the processes involved• demonstrate specific knowledge and specialist understanding of the professional and

contextual location of your practice• undertake a major project in textiles that demonstrates a personal identity• develop a personal promotional strategy, portfolio and/or other appropriate means of

presenting your practice at a professional level.

Indicative syllabus content• Personal and professional development: identifying, undertaking and evaluating work

related learning opportunities; signposting to relevant professional bodies, networks and resources; exploring self-promotion and publicity, investigating marketing strategies and practices, developing a portfolio.

• Presentation skills; developing work to a high quality and craftsmanship, methods of finishing, preparation of portfolios, exhibitions, and other presentation opportunities.

• Project management; undertaking a sustained major project, time-management and self-reflection skills.

AimsThe unit aims to:• demonstrate a synthesis of prior learning, practical and conceptual understanding in

the resolution of a self-initiated major project• support and inform the development of an individually appropriate strategy for

progression into self-employment, professional practice or continued education• establish a personal visual language to your body of work• reinforce self-motivation, autonomy and professionalism to take your work on to the

step.

Documents

(Hons) Textiles