10 THINGS I WISH I KNEW BEFORE GCSE/A LEVEL ART: Tips and tricks

Summary

In this art-focused video, the creator shares valuable insights and tips for students embarking on their GCSE or A-Level art journey. Key themes include managing expectations about the workload, avoiding comparison with peers, and the importance of time management. The video also emphasizes the significance of using good quality materials, particularly brushes, and the value of original photography over online resources. Lastly, the creator advises viewers to seek help from teachers and not to be intimidated by the course's demands.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't be discouraged by others' opinions; pursue GCSE art for the right reasons, not just for an easy pass.
• 🎨 Believe in your own abilities and avoid comparing your work excessively to your classmates'.
• 🕒 Be prepared for art to be time-consuming; manage your time wisely to balance coursework with other subjects.
• 📚 Look at past pupils' work and the syllabus to understand the workload and expectations.
• 🖌️ Invest in good quality brushes and start with basic art supplies; you don't need everything at once.
• 📸 Pay attention to photography for your art projects; good photos are essential for high-quality work.
• 🖼️ Remember that bigger isn't always better; focus on detail and quality rather than size.
• 📖 Be proactive in seeking help from your teacher; they are there to support your development.
• 🔍 Use online resources like YouTube for inspiration, but be aware of differences in exam boards and requirements.
• 📝 Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable parts to reduce stress and improve focus.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the video?

The main theme of the video is to share the top tips and insights the creator wishes they knew before starting GCSE art, aiming to help future students prepare and make informed decisions about taking art courses.

Why might some people discourage others from taking GCSE art?

Some people might discourage others from taking GCSE art because they believe it requires a lot of work and effort, or they may view it as a 'pointless subject.' However, the creator suggests ignoring such comments, especially from those who haven't experienced it themselves.

What is the creator's advice for dealing with negative comments about taking GCSE art?

The creator advises ignoring negative comments, especially from those who haven't taken the course themselves, and not taking the course just because it seems easy. Instead, one should take it for the right reasons, such as a genuine interest in art.

How does the creator suggest managing the time-consuming nature of GCSE art?

The creator suggests staying up to date with coursework during the week and setting aside a specific day of the weekend for art-related activities to ensure a good balance and avoid falling behind.

Why is it important not to compare your work to others in the class according to the creator?

Comparing your work to others can lead to a lack of self-belief and hinder the quality of your own work. The creator encourages believing in oneself and focusing on personal progress rather than comparing with peers.

What role does photography play in GCSE art according to the video?

Photography plays a significant role in GCSE art as it is often used as a primary resource for creating artwork. The creator emphasizes the importance of taking good quality photos with proper lighting and background setup.

What is the creator's advice on choosing the size of art pieces for GCSE art?

The creator advises that bigger doesn't always mean better. While large pieces can be impressive, it's the detail and quality that matter more for achieving high marks, so students shouldn't feel pressured to create overly large pieces.

Why should students look at past pupils' work according to the video?

Looking at past pupils' work can provide insights into the volume and quality of work required, as well as ideas for sketchbook layouts and background concepts. It helps in understanding the expectations and standards of the course.

What is the creator's recommendation regarding art supplies for GCSE art?

The creator recommends starting with basic art supplies and gradually building up the collection as needed. They also suggest investing in a good quality brush set and not rushing to buy all supplies at once.

How should students approach their teachers for help with GCSE art according to the video?

Students should not be afraid to ask their teachers for help as it's part of the teacher's job to support them. The creator encourages students to seek help when needed and develop their ideas with guidance from their teachers.