Visual Communication A one year, part-time course

This one year course is suited to those who already have some creative education and practice, but is also accessible to those coming from another discipline or background and who wish to explore visual communication for the first time.

You will receive a solid grounding in the basic principles and practices of visual language and communication followed by thematic modules which allow you to explore image, typography and moving image in more depth.

Students then focus on a selfdirected body of work, exploring a theme, context and medium of their choice. Examples of final projects in recent years include exploring and re-interpreting ‘seaside typography’; interrogating how design can reduce car use and pollution locally; a visual study of Margate’s iconic architecture.

Entry Requirement:

BA(Hons) or relevant experience, which does not need to be directly related to the field of visual communication.

Evidence of previous creative practice shown in a pdf portfolio, Instagram or website (eg illustration, photography, printmaking)

Basic knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign is desirable

Interview

Duration: Part-time October 2023 to June 2024

Taught sessions on: Thursday. 15 hours minimum independent study

Cohort Size: up to 15 places

Design Society Nature supports every student to develop as a critically-minded designer, equipped to contribute positively to your community and the wider world.

This course, unique in its approach to design education, will support you to develop:

• A solid understanding of the principles and practice of visual language and communication

• Independent and critical thinking

• The confidence and skills to pursue your creative ambitions

• An understanding of and experience of socially and environmentally engaged practice including Human Centred Design and ‘Design Futuring’ (Tony Fry 2008)

What you get:

• Practical thematic modules combined with design history and critical studies sessions

• Tutorial support - regular one-to-ones with tutors, peer and tutor reviews and critique

• A diverse programme of practical workshops, guest lectures and gallery visits to support your personal and creative development

• Collaborative opportunities with others on the course and the wider TMS community

• Live design briefs in partnership with local businesses and organisations

• Workshop inductions at TMS, including dark room, screen printing and sound design workshops

• Introductory tuition in Adobe Photoshop, In Design, Illustrator, After Effects and Premiere Pro

• The opportunity to collaboratively plan and design the course final show, which is an integral part of Margate Festival of Design

• A portfolio of diverse design work to take you onto your future creative endeavours

Cost:

£4,000 per academic year, including hot desk, computers with Adobe Creative Suite

£550 per individual module Bursaries are available

Alum profile:

Claire-Beth Gibson

Claire-Beth graduated from the programme in 2022. She is now working as a graphic designer with Cliftonville Cultural Space and Speak Up CIC.

Visit: clairebethclaire.com themargateschool.com

The Design Society Nature course has been a transformative experience. Already being a visual artist but feeling stuck in my practice, I felt like I needed a boost onto the next part of my creative journey. This course has given me that boost. It has helped me connect with local creatives; experiment with new mediums using the fabulous FabLab; as well as refining my design and research skills in an undeniably awesome environment.