Developing Ideas through Investigations

Start by exploring a variety of sources for inspiration, these can include subjects and themes such as still life, portraiture, nature, abstract concepts, or cultures.
Investigating different artists, craftspeople, and designers is vital. Understand their work, influence, style, and techniques and see how you can apply them to your own ideas and creations.
Try to use a range of observational drawings and other practical skills to record your findings. This allows you to visualise your initial ideas before expanding on them.
Experiment with different materials and tools. This could mean painting, sculpting, or digital design, depending on what best suits the direction of your investigation.
Refine your techniques based on what you discover during your experimentation. Test different colour combinations, texture effects, or design layouts, and maintain a record of your process.
Regularly review your work and make improvements or changes based on your evolving thoughts and perspective.
Ensure you analyse and reflect on your work, considering the visual and aesthetic aspects, as well as the technical execution.
Be open to new directions and perspectives. What you initially envisioned may change as you investigate and develop your ideas further.
Always maintain a well-organised and detailed sketchbook or portfolio. It should show evidence of your thought process, different steps of the development, and ongoing reflections.
Understand that developing ideas through investigations is a continuous and cyclical process. Keep observing, experimenting, refining, and reflecting to ensure your artwork keeps evolving.