Committed to Art and Design MLC’s Art and Design Department is one of the largest in Australia. What does that mean for students?
MLC’s Senior School students benefit from the support and experience of 13 dedicated teaching staff and four specialist technician and educational support staff. The team draws on vast educational and industry knowledge to deliver an outstanding Art and Design education. The extensive curriculum is further enhanced by 13 specialist studios and a technology studio fitted with industry-standard graphic design software and 3D printers. In Years 11 and 12, every VCE Art and Design subject is offered at MLC, alongside the globally recognised Visual Arts course in the International Baccalaureate. Senior School Head of Art and Design, Mark Threadgold, says MLC deeply values the Arts. “The College’s commitment to Art and Design is outstanding. We have exceptional resources to support our program.”
Year 9 students participate in a three-day intensive artist workshop at MLC Marshmead. “We opened Jack’s Shed art studio there in Term 2. The beautiful environment of Marshmead influences their artmaking process.” The Art and Design team runs regular co-curricular activities, exhibitions and events throughout the year, in collaboration with the Art Prefect and other student leaders. The Art Club, Ceramics Club, Woodwork Club, Screen and Media Club, and Photography Mentoring are all popular. “The Friends of Art parent committee provides wonderful support for our events schedule. In recent years, online exhibitions via virtual ‘walk through’ technology have complemented our physical gallery-style exhibitions.”
During remote learning periods, MLC supported students to continue producing high quality work, with an online system to request art materials and access technical support. “We had a COVID-safe system for students to drop off work to be fired in the kiln, or submit their designs for laser cutting,” Mark explains. The Years 7-10 curriculum includes core subjects and an impressive choice of electives. From designing homewares with laser cutters to film and television production, fashion design and ceramics and sculpture, the breadth of materials and technologies on offer is world class. “Students will analyse, interpret and evaluate a range of visual artworks. Appreciating work by First Nations Australians is another deep commitment at MLC,” Mark says. “Our Artist in Residence Program is particularly inspiring for students. By working with esteemed visual artists, they also gain industry insights.” This year, artists Tai Snaith, Kathy Temin, Jahnne Pasco-White, Ann De Bono and Kay Abude engaged with students in practical workshops in MLC’s studios and via interactive online discussions. Head of Art and Design, Mark Threadgold guiding Year 7 students through painting techniques.
MLC’s Art and Design journey Kindle
Prep to Year 6
Years 7 to 10
Reggio Emilia play-based learning.
Weekly art classes plus integrated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Design and Mathematics) learning across the whole curriculum.
Media, Visual Arts, Product Design and Technology (Wood Design), plus multiple electives.
6 The Star November 2021
