DESIGN FOUNDATION
The Foundation Program at the Academy of Design is designed for aspiring creatives looking to begin their journey into the world of design through a strong foundation in creative thinking, visual communication, and design practice. Serving as a direct entry pathway into AOD’s internationally recognised BA (Hons) degree programmes awarded by Northumbria University, the programme prepares students for higher education within a dynamic, studio-based learning environment.
Combining design fundamentals, drawing, concept development, digital exploration, research, and creative experimentation, the Foundation Program helps students build the confidence, technical skills, and critical thinking needed to progress into specialised fields including Visual Communication Design, Motion Graphics & Animation, Fashion & Textile Design, Fashion Design & Marketing, and Interior Design.
Through immersive project-based learning and mentorship from academics and industry practitioners, students are encouraged to explore their creativity, develop their personal voice, and build the foundation for a future within the global creative industry.
Syllabus overview
This Programme allows students to develop the skills they need to succeed in tertiary design education. In the eight months of the programme, students will be learning observational drawing, mixed media, composition and design, art history, design process, colour theory, life drawing, design thinking, and many others.
The programme covers everything from design thinking and practices during which they learn the design fundamentals, to the zeitgeist class, where they learn designer 'must-knows' from the past and the present.
Sketchbook and Journal Development
It is a place of complete inspiration and full of exciting drawings, thoughts and scribbles. The best things can come from a very small sketch of an idea; the smallest and quickest ideas can grow into huge concepts and great design.
Design Thinking and Realisation
Students will be exposed to new ways of thinking and approaching design. Through lectures on the fundamental building blocks of design, students will learn the necessary skills to advance to the first year of the design course.
The Zeitgeist
In this module, you will be required to detail what inspires you. Understanding and investigating will even drive you to a better level of thinking and allow you to explore new and exciting ideas, resulting in a unique creative impact.
The Language of Design
This module will prepare the students to step into their first year with confidence and be equipped with the knowledge and strategies to achieve the best from university learning.
Visual Style and Illustration
Comprehension of the fundamentals of illustration is very important. The illustration is a personal exploration, and everyone has their own style of exploring visual styles, covering photography, mixed media, observational drawings, collage etc.
World of Design Work
Through this module, students will be exposed to many experts from different backgrounds and disciplines from all over the design and fine art world. Students will have two three-hour workshops with each design expert.
International Students
We welcome students from around the world and understand that our international students may have special requirements, email us at info@aod.lk