Portfolio and External Assessment

Artists and designers look for inspiration to use as a starting point for their creative projects. Many artists and designers find inspiration in the work of others.

Artists and designers find stimuli in the world around them or research a particular topic to find stimuli. They use this material to help them generate a personal creative response in their work.

Artists use analytical drawing techniques to explore and record their subject matter. Designers also often use analytical drawing to investigate the visual qualities of their sources of inspiration.

Developing ideas is part of the creative process for artists and designers. By exploring and refining ideas, effective decisions can be made about the final piece of artwork or design solution.

Designers use a brief to give them guidance and focus. A brief helps define the design problem and gives details on important considerations and constraints.

Artists and designers use a variety of materials and techniques for different purposes and to create different effects.

Recording your ideas, observations and insights will help your creative process. You can do this visually, through writing or by using other media.

Annotation means writing key information alongside your work. It can help to record your thoughts, keep your development on track and let others know what you have done and why.

Artists and designers often record ideas they have for artworks and designs. They will note down observations as they go so they can analyse and evaluate the effectiveness of the work produced

To effectively present your project you need to show how you have developed ideas, refined your work, recorded your process and created a personal and meaningful response.

There is no written exam for GCSE Art & Design – instead there is a portfolio and an externally set assignment. Learn what this assignment involves, how to prepare for it and how it is marked.