Taste is not definable. It is elusive but also instinctive. Such intuition does not come out of thin air, it constantly evolves as awareness of the world increases and the skills with which to process and prioritise this knowledge heighten.
The three mandatory units are constructed to analyse a broad range of social, cultural, historical and behavioural factors. The premise is that an understanding of the past informs a discerning interpretation of the present and fuels an intelligent anticipation of what is to come.
In British Cultural Studies you will be encouraged to explore for inspiration and knowledge whilst researching about an 'alternative' London. Part of this will be gaining knowledge of the layers of idiosyncratic behaviour, cultural attitudes and curious customs that define the real essence of a place. You will have the opportunity to explore and discover an insight into Britishness, and more to the point an understanding of 'Londoness'.
These classes are predominantly field trips. You will participate in a number of guided walks through obscure parts of London (unrelated to fashion), looking behind the scenes and gathering an alternative perspective by observing the mechanics of a city steeped in a complex history. Where do people go, what do they say, how do they talk, what do they eat? The aim of this unit is to 'make a difference' to the way you find, see, absorb, process, and communicate information - in your own individual and personal way.
We want to develop your awareness, individuality and confidence. You will be encouraged to consider originality, creativity, uniqueness - breaking the mould, possibly reconnecting with being a child again, remembering what it was like to suddenly discover new and wonderful things. We want you to take risks, be expressive. Be bold. Speak out. Have an opinion.
Conventional approaches don’t work anymore; those that take risks stand out from the crowd. You will have the opportunity to visit many unexpected parts of the city, where you will gather a personal body of research and experience, which you will take home with you as a memento of your time in London.