Sustained Investigations

Maya King
4 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This guide covers the AP Art & Design Sustained Investigation (SI), which makes up 60% of the AP Portfolio score. It explains the inquiry process, driven by a guiding question (similar to a thesis). The guide also details what should be included in the 15 image spaces, such as documentation, progress shots, detail shots, and finished pieces.
#AP Art & Design: Sustained Investigation - Your Ultimate Guide π
Hey there, future AP Art & Design rockstar! Feeling the pre-exam jitters? No sweat! This guide is your secret weapon to ace the Sustained Investigation (SI) section. Let's break it down, make it stick, and get you feeling confident. Remember, you've got this! πͺ
#What's the Deal with the Sustained Investigation?
Think of your Sustained Investigation (SI) as your year-long artistic adventure. It's not just about creating pretty pictures; it's about diving deep into an idea and showing how your thinking evolves. Itβs the core of your AP portfolio, making up a whopping 60% of your final score!
#The Inquiry: Your Artistic Quest π§
At the heart of your SI is your inquiry, driven by a guiding question. This question isn't just a random thought; it's the starting point of your exploration. It's what you'll be expanding on, revising, and answering through your art.
Think of your guiding question as the thesis of your SI. Your artwork is the evidence that supports your thesis.
#Guiding Question: More Than Just a Question π€
Your guiding question doesn't have to be a literal question. It's an idea you're curious about, something you want to explore. It's the spark that ignites your creative process. Itβs the driving force behind your artistic journey.
Think of your guiding question as the 'why' behind your art. It's the reason you're creating, not just what you're creating.
#What Goes Into Your SI?
Your SI is a collection of 15 image spaces that showcase your artistic journey. It's not just about finished pieces; it's about the entire process. Think of it as a visual diary of your artistic exploration.
#The 15 Image Spaces: Your Canvas πΌοΈ
These spaces are your opportunity to demonstrate your inquiry. Here's what you can include:
- Documentation: Sketchbook pages, early drafts, and material trials. This shows your thought process and how your ideas developed. π
- Progress Shots: Composite images showing the evolution of your work. Use these wisely to show inquiry, not just time passing. β³
- Detail Shots: Close-ups that reveal important details and support your investigation. π
- Finished Pieces: The final artworks that represent your inquiry. πΌοΈ
Don't feel pressured to have 15 finished pieces. Focus on using the image spaces to showcase your process and inquiry.
#The "Rules"
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