Studies
Porvoo Art School teaches visual language, emphasizing the creative process over the final product. Students develop diverse visual skills, learn to use a variety of materials, and gain appreciation for both their own work and that of others.
The advanced syllabus in basic education in visual arts is primarily intended for school-aged children and young people. In addition, the Art School provides early childhood introductury studies for children aged 1–5.
Education consists of lessons, independent work, and participation in other art and cultural events. Students may also complete studies by attending courses and art trips. The completion of the latter is agreed separately with the teacher and the principal.
The programme includes basic studies and advanced studies. In the final stage of the advanced studies, students have the opportunity to complete a final project. Students receive a certificate of their studies.
Extent of Instruction and Core Content
The advanced syllabus of Basic Education in Visual Arts comprises a total of 1300 teaching hours. One teaching hour equals 45 minutes.
Introductory studies, ages 1–5
- 2 h / week (68 h / year)
- 138 € / semester (276 € / year)
In the introductory studies, children are introduced to art through playful work. The teaching enriches the imagination, the senses and the expression of diverse operations.
Intermediate studies, ages 6–14
Ages 6–9
- 2 h / week (68 h / year)
- 138 € / semester (276 € / year)
Students will learn about the basic knowledge and skills in image creation. The development of visual thinking and expression are an important part of teaching.
Ages 10–14
- 3 h / week (102 h / year)
- 180 / semester (360 € / year)
Students will learn about the artists’ work and learn to identify various art techniques. At the same time, the students learn to follow their own artistic process and express their thoughts orally, in writing and figuratively.
Advanced studies in workshops, ages 15–19
- 3–6 h / week (102–204 h / year, total 760 h)
- 180 / semester (360 € / year)
- Workshops: Media art, Design, Visual arts
Advanced studies begin when the child is 12 years old. In the advanced studies, students are immersed in the knowledge and skills that they received in basic education and they practice to independently express themselves visually. Teaching takes place in year long workshops chosen from the art school options. The goal is for diverse experimentation within different fields of art.
Arts n’ Music School, ages 0–9
Family Group for ages 0−3 + parent
- 60 mins / week
- 180 / semester (360 € / year)
Ages 3−9
- 2 h / week
- 180 / semester (360 € / year)
In Arts n’ Music School early childhood visual arts and music education are combined as a single entity. The most important thing in the education is experiential and integrity, combined with the joy of doing and learning.
Other studies
The Art School organizes also courses for everyone. The courses’ content varies and some of them are suitable for adults. The courses are equivalent to training in basic art education.
Art exhibitions and field trips
The Art School organizes at least one art exhibition excursion or field trip for each group. The art exhibitions are a part of the curriculum and may replace a lesson. They may also be subject to a separate payment.
Evaluation
The teachers discuss the completed works with the students and give feedback. The purpose of this evaluation is to support the student’s work and develop their self-confidence. Feedback is given both on the finished works as well as the work process itself, which is seen as equally important. The students are also encouraged to evaluate their own work and to reflect on how they have managed to reach their goals.
Diplomas
Diplomas for intermediate studies
Once the student has completed the required 800 hours of lessons according to the curriculum and constructed a portfolio of these lessons, they will receive a written diploma of attendance. The diploma will include written evaluations from two teachers.
Diplomas for advanced studies
Once the student has completed the required 500 hours of lessons required for advanced studies and carried out a diploma work (100 h) on a chosen topic, they will receive a diploma for completing the advanced studies at the Art School. The diploma will include written evaluations from two teachers as well as numeral grades. If the student decides to terminate their studies at the Art School or chooses not to complete the diploma work, a written reference of attendance can be obtained from the Art School office.
