Art

Art as a subject at Bridge House is a popular choice for creative students who are prepared (eager might be a better word) to spend a lot of time on their practical work. It also has a strong Theory component and from Grade 10 through to Grade 12 we study South African and International Art. As an IEB school, we do this using a thematic approach - the themes ranging from 'Power in Art' through to 'Art as a Reflection of Society.'

Bridge House has its own kiln and its own Dark Room. A number of students opt to take Black and White photography as their practical option and are tutored by an independent professional photographer. Although this is an 'extra' in terms of fees, we do try to incorporate most of the sessions within the school timetable.

The Outcomes that form the basis of assessment are:

1. Conceptualising: The learner is able to explore, develop and realize creative ideas in response to both externally set and self-generated projects, drawing on own experience and own knowledge of visual culture in the past and present.
2. Management and Presentation: The learner is able to effectively manage own working process and own personal and professional development within the visual arts field.
3. Making: The learner is able to explore and manipulate materials, techniques, processes and technologies in the making of imaginative and innovative objects of personal expression.
4. Visual Culture Studies: The learner is able to demonstrate knowledge, skills and values acquired through the study of the diverse roles and functions of visual arts in contemporary life and in different times and cultures. It does also have a strong Theory component, which, in Matric, counts for 50% of the total marks.

In Grades 8 and 9, all students take Art, along with Drama and Music as part of their Arts and Culture programme.

In Grade 10, those who have elected to take Art as their FET choice, are required to draw, as this discipline is required right the way through to Matric. Apart from that they are encouraged to experiment with as many different media as possible. In the past, we have entered students for Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Sculpture,Computer-generated Photography,Black and White Photography as their practical disciplines. It is important to realise that when students elect to follow a course other than Painting and Drawing, a large amount of self-tuition and use of outside sources will be required.

In Grade 11, we continue to experiment with different media, but with a view now towards choosing a single discipline for Grade 12 and looking at different themes.

In Grade 12, students have to produce a portfolio of work as well as an exam on subject matter determined by the IEB. Our work is of a consitently high standard and our results are generally well above the National average.

In Theory lessons we look at artists and movements that helped shape developments in art during the twentieth century in South Africa and the rest of the world.