THE JOURNEY OF A YEAR 12 VISUAL ARTS MAJOR WORK

Year 12 Visual Arts students produce a Major Work, known as a Body of Work, as part of their HSC course. This is achieved through an ongoing collaboration between the student and their teacher, who brings expertise and experience to guide students throughout the year-long process. We spoke to Year 12 Visual Arts teacher, Mr Marcus Fitzpatrick, about developing a Body of Work and the different roles of the teacher and the student.

FROM THE TEACHER

How do you guide students when they begin their Major Work?

Our programs are structured to support students on a creative journey from Year 7, helping them build their skills and knowledge to produce their best work by Year 12. We assess each student based on their strengths and how they develop their concepts, offering personalised guidance that aligns with their current level of ability.

At the start of Year 12, we engage in a conversation with students to explore their interests and aspirations for their Major Work. We also discuss their strengths in material practice and work to connect their concepts with these skills. From that point, students document their entire process in a diary, refining their ideas and techniques.

How do you guide students to make confident, independent creative decisions?

Building a strong, trusting relationship with students is key. It’s essential to believe in them and convey that belief clearly. From there, we continue to provide ongoing guidance, celebrating their progress and helping them navigate the process of bringing their Major Work together. This supportive approach allows students to grow in confidence and make empowered creative decisions.

Mr Najee Tannous
Leader of Learning - Creative and Performing Arts

Mr Marcus Fitzpatrick
Assistant Leader of Learning - Creative and Performing Arts