NAS HndBk 2010 Int v4:Layout 1
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FOREWORD Welcome to the National Art School, and to what I trust will be an exciting and fulfilling academic year for you as a student, whether you are joining the School for the first time or returning for further study. 2010 represents an exciting year for the National Art School as it realises the transition from the NSW Department of Education and Training to become a fully independent higher education provider. The National Art School offers accredited courses that lead to the award of the degrees of Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA), Bachelor of Fine Art Honours (BFA Hons) and Master of Fine Art by Research (MFA). The vision and focus of the National Art School is committed to the traditions of specialist studio practice, with majors in the fields of Ceramics, Drawing (at Honours and MFA), Painting, Photography, Printmaking and Sculpture along with the study of Drawing and Art History & Theory throughout its courses. Since its earliest inception, the National Art School has maintained a steadfast commitment to developing in each and every student the capacity for meaningful practice as an artist, by guiding them through the various histories and methodologies of the specialist studio disciplines. The lecturers at the National Art School are all distinguished in their achievements and contributions to their respective fields, and we can ensure the necessary breadth of knowledge and experience required to accommodate the development of each individual student. All of the courses have a focus on this individual guidance and mentoring of students through the creative process as an important element of our approach and ethos. There are many additional activities that contribute to the experience of being a student at the National Art School. These include the NAS Gallery and its changing program of exhibitions, research publications and public programs focused on visual art practices relevant to the academic programs, which features group and solo projects by Australian and International artists that support the philosophy of the School in being profoundly aware of the past whilst recognising and engaging with the present. The new Study Centre for Drawing will also have a changing program of exhibitions and projects dedicated to the role of drawing in visual arts practice; and the weekly Forum lectures and the interstate and international Artist-in-Residence Scheme will enable you to get to see, meet and discuss the working practices of a range of Australian and international artists. The National Art School attracts quality applicants from a range of differing backgrounds, and all of you have been selected for your individual ability to succeed within our programs. The School prides itself on the professional successes achieved by its students and staff, which include many major awards for emerging and established artists, major exhibitions and publications. For many of you, this period of intensive study and reflection will establish a template for your future endeavours as practising artists, and for others this period will act as a springboard into further study or related careers. Whatever your future direction,
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