Europe has arguably the richest artistic culture in the world and the UK has been an educational hub for countless apprentices in history. So which institution boasts the oldest artistic tradition in the whole of Britain? The answer is the 'Royal Academy Schools'. Hotcourses' Korean editor, So Young Bae is currently studying for a BA in Creative Multimedia in London and in this article, pshe rovides an investigation of this rich and varied culture at the Royal Academy Schools.
Being an independent art establishment, the Royal Academy Schools (the name implies multiple schools, but there is actually only one academy) were established in 1768 along with the Royal Academy of Arts. The Art School offers only one program which is a 3-year postgraduate diploma in fine art. Places are limited and extremely competitive due to the massive number of applications from around the world. Some of the notable artists that the school produced include J.M.W Turner, William Blake, Thomas Rowlandson, Sir Edwin Landseer (a designer of the bronze lion sculptures in Trafalgar square) and Sir Thomas Lawrence (who once served as president of the Royal Academy of Arts).
Students in Royal Academy Schools are given the opportunity to exhibit their artworks twice a year at the Royal Academy, where endless viewers visit from all around the globe. The Academy holds lectures and speeches given by renowned artists and theorists. Its location is also ideal, as it is right in the centre of London near to Piccadilly Circus. For more information on the application process, please visit the website of Royal Academy Schools.
If you think that other study options or programs are more suited to you rather than the 3-year postgraduate diploma, the door is wide open for you in the UK. Since the foundation of Royal Academy Schools, countless art schools have been established in the UK. The British love of art has attracted an influx of creative and innovative contributions from aspiring artists and the active support of art culture by UK government has made the UK one of the creative centres of the world. Fine Art alone is being taught in over 600 universities and colleges in the UK at present. The 2011 Times Good University Guide ranked 'University College London' as number one in art sector courses in the UK. It is wise to remember that, although rankings are a useful and popular resource, often the best way to find a course that is suited to you is to investigate the modules offered and then read reviews from students who have studied there.
Fine Art study normally consists of modules such as drawing, painting, printmaking, art history and studio practice etc. Many UK universities offer interesting contemporary modules so it is always helpful to check before the enrolment which modules you could benefit from studying. Taking combined programs such as Fine Art and Photography or Fine Art and History can also be a good way to satisfy your multiple needs in a future career.
In the article 'The Art of UK Study' published by Hotcourses, case studies from successful young artists can be found. Tips on how to explore the art scene in London can be found through my blog 'The Arts in London'. It is also very useful to join one of the online art communities such as the 'Body of Art' to keep up with the trend and flow of art and be informed about events held in the UK.
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