Learners may only take ONE of the two art subjects, DESIGN or VISUAL ARTS, as part of their subject choice.

In Grade 10, the basic concepts, techniques and skills regarding a specific discipline are presented to learners. In Grade 11, learners are expected to move towards interpreting these basic concepts and skills. In Grade 12, learners are given more freedom to individualise their formal projects and they are expected to interpret and apply the concepts, techniques and skills individually.

VISUAL ARTS covers a broad field of creative practice that involves the hand, the eye, the intellect and the imagination in conceptualising and creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional artworks, objects and environments which reflect the aesthetic, conceptual and expressive concerns of individuals or groups. Learners acquire the capacity to make practical and aesthetic decisions in the development of a coherent body of work. The subject Visual Arts is about self-expression and offers learners a way to engage meaningfully with, and respond to, their world. It provides opportunities to stimulate and develop learner’s intellect, engaging their creative imagination through visual and tactile experiences and the innovative use of materials and technology in realising their ideas. It also encourages learners to develop and individual visual language and literacy, which is informed and shaped by the study of visual culture, past and present.

Learners can choose ONE of the following VISUAL ARTS disciplines to specialise in during grades 10 to 12: Drawing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture or Ceramics.

DESIGN is a creative problem-solving process and includes the study of both design practice and design theory. The design process involves problem identification, planning, research, innovation, conceptualisation, experimentation and critical reflection. This process typically results in new environments, systems, services and products, which may be unique or intended for mass production, or which may be constructed by hand or produced by mechanical and/or electronic means. Design adds value to life by creating products that have a purpose, that are functional and that have aesthetic value. Design products can shape the social, cultural and physical environment to the benefit of the nation. Most importantly, Design equips learners with crucial life skills such as visual literacy, critical and creative thinking, self-discipline, and leadership. It also encourages learners to be resourceful and entrepreneurial, to strategise and to be team players.

Learners can choose ONE of the following DESIGN disciplines to specialise in during grades 10 to 12: Ceramics, Illustration, Textiles or Jewellery.