AICE Art and Design AS

Course Description

For more information about this Cambridge course, visit the curriculum page of the Cambridge Assessment International Education website. 

The key concepts for Cambridge International AS & A Level Art & Design are:

• Communication: An essential purpose of any piece of art and design is to communicate, from the simplest sketch to the most complex work. Artists and designers need to understand that the relationship their work builds with the audience is influenced by many things, including their chosen media and methods. Effective communication is also essential for operating in today’s art and design world, which demands collaboration and engagement with wider cultures and movements.
• Creativity: Creativity is at the heart of an artist or designer’s processes. It pushes them to question, investigate, experiment and take risks to create work that is original and meaningful. Creative practitioners use curiosity, imagination and innovation to solve art and design problems in new ways.
• Intention: An intention is the starting point of any project, from which an artist or designer starts to develop ideas. An intention or purpose can come from a brief, proposal or research, while at other times it might begin as an idea or feeling. Though an intention is the reason to start a project, it is important to understand that the intention can evolve as work develops.
• Materials and processes: Experimentation with materials and processes builds confidence, and helps develop awareness of spatial, textural and color relationships, which are fundamental to art and design. A skilful artist or designer selects the materials and processes that communicate their message in the most effective way.
• Critical reflection: Critical reflection is the ongoing process that helps artists and designers to learn what works and what doesn’t. Artists and designers need to evaluate how the materials, techniques and processes they choose affect how their work communicates meaning. This process can help work become more relevant and coherent.
• Research and context: First-hand research helps artists and designers to develop their ideas and refine their practice. Actively researching and responding to other practitioners, cultures and creative movements gives the artist or designer a broad view of the world. An artist or designer can use this to improve their practice and understand how their work connects with its intended audience.

Additional Information

Students must sit for the AICE exam in the spring, which may occur after the end of the school year.