BA (Hons) Illustration

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Illustration program at Leeds Arts University provides an immersive and comprehensive undergraduate experience for individuals passionate about visual storytelling and the creation of compelling imagery for a wide range of contexts. This program is meticulously designed to equip students with a strong foundation in drawing, visual communication, narrative development, and diverse illustration techniques, both traditional and digital. It emphasizes the development of individual artistic style, conceptual thinking, and the ability to create impactful visuals for publishing, advertising, animation, games, and beyond. Students are encouraged to explore their unique creative interests, experiment with different media, and develop a strong professional identity as illustrators. The program fosters a collaborative and industry-focused learning environment, preparing graduates for a wide array of roles within the dynamic and global illustration industry. Students will develop a substantial portfolio of their illustrative work, showcasing their technical skills, creative vision, and professional versatility.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Illustration program at Leeds Arts University is structured to provide a comprehensive and progressive understanding of illustration principles and practices. It typically encompasses core modules that delve into drawing and visual language, narrative illustration, character design, image-making techniques (including digital painting, printmaking, and mixed media), visual communication theory, context and audience, professional practice, and portfolio development. A strong emphasis is placed on developing strong observational and imaginative drawing skills as foundational elements for effective illustration. Students will engage with industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, alongside exploring traditional media. The curriculum often incorporates project-based learning, allowing students to work individually and collaboratively on illustration briefs that simulate real-world scenarios. Critical analysis of historical and contemporary illustration is integrated throughout the program to provide a robust intellectual framework for creative practice. Students are also encouraged to explore their individual areas of interest within illustration, such as children's books, editorial illustration, or graphic novels, and to develop a distinctive visual style.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Illustration program at Leeds Arts University encourages a research-informed approach to creative practice, prompting students to explore the theoretical, historical, cultural, and technical aspects of illustration. Research within the program often involves investigating different visual communication strategies, analyzing the work of influential illustrators, exploring narrative structures in visual media, and examining the role of illustration in society and culture. Students are supported in developing their own research interests and using their illustrative practice as a form of inquiry. This might involve researching specific illustration genres and their conventions, exploring the relationship between image and text, or analyzing the impact of digital technologies on illustration practice. Practice-based research is central, with students using their developing illustrative work as a means of generating new knowledge and understanding. The program fosters critical reflection on the creative process and encourages students to articulate their artistic choices through research and analysis.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a vital component of the BA (Hons) Illustration program at Leeds Arts University, providing students with invaluable connections to the professional illustration world. The university actively fosters relationships with design agencies, publishing houses, animation studios, advertising agencies, and illustration agents. Students benefit from opportunities to participate in live briefs set by industry partners, workshops and masterclasses led by renowned illustrators, portfolio reviews with industry experts, and potential internships or work placements. Guest lectures from leading illustrators and creative professionals offer valuable insights into current industry trends, practices, and career pathways. The program often facilitates collaborative projects with external organizations, allowing students to gain real-world experience and build their professional networks. The annual graduate show serves as a crucial platform for students to showcase their illustrative work to potential employers and make connections within the industry. The university's dedicated careers service provides ongoing support in preparing portfolios, developing professional skills, and navigating the job market.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Illustration program at Leeds Arts University incorporates a global perspective by examining the diverse styles, techniques, and cultural influences within international illustration. The curriculum often explores illustration traditions and contemporary practices from around the world, analyzing different approaches to visual storytelling, character design, and image-making across various cultures. Students are encouraged to consider diverse cultural perspectives in their own work and to understand the global market for illustration in different sectors. The presence of international students and faculty within the university fosters a rich and cross-cultural learning environment, promoting the exchange of global perspectives and ideas within the field of illustration. Students are encouraged to consider the global reach of their illustrative work and to develop a portfolio that demonstrates an awareness of international trends and possibilities, preparing them for careers in a globalized creative industry.