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With a solid grounding of skills and exploration of materials/process established in previous modules, students are required to extend and develop approach, content and subject of their work by undertaking a substantial enquiry into a new subject or area of interest. The enquiry may well be developed and informed by the student placing themselves (and their work) in a different social, cultural or political context (normally on and after an extended trip or visit abroad). It is essential that students take the opportunity to explore a wide range of relevant issues raised by the nature of the new investigation.

In developing a sustained body of work deriving from the kind of experience outlined above, the nature of enquiry inherent to this module has the potential to inform studio work in a unique way, differentiating the working practice from other Level 4 modules.

Creative possibilities for visual work are developed by reflecting on, and distillation of, the experience undertaken. Memories, thoughts and feelings evoked by the experience are both challenged and affirmed over a period of sustained practical and theoretical research. Working through meaningful issues raised, and developing positions and opinions which can lead to new and different means of expression, is an important potential learning outcome of this module.

Initially students are expected to use a broad range of research and independent study methodologies, including gathering both written and visual reference material, as well as engaging in focused group discussion, seminar and critique. This facilitates a period of investigation, leading to a personal enquiry into a body of sustained, substantial and explorative studio work. This working practice also establishes an opportunity for students to work in an increasingly self-initiated way. One to one tutorials increasingly support students to identify personal direction for investigation, and experiment with ways of realising ideas through visually and conceptually articulate work.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. Use a broad range of research and independent study methodologies, including gathering both written and visual reference material
2. Identifying and establishing lines of visual enquiry from initial sources of research
3. Understand how the influence of a different social, political or cultural context can effect the artistic practice
4. Apply a variety of means of visual investigation and technical approaches to the realisation of work within appropriate medium and means of production
5. Discuss key ideas and concepts of visual work, demonstrating ongoing critical abilities
6. Work in a an independent and self initiated way
7. Plan, conceive and realise work within a set timescale

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.