Course: Costume Design and Make-Up
Advanced Certificate FETAC Level 6
Level 5, 6 NQAI
Qualifications Framework
FETAC Code: ADESX
This two year full time course is
designed to enable the student to understand and master the
design and technical processes in costume and make-up design
from initial ideas through to complete production
realisation for film and theatre.
Description
The student is taught the skills
involved in realising their design work from design through
to the complete costume, hair and make-up look for actors.
The student is given individual attention to develop their
own area of interest. The student is continually assessed
through studio based project work. They are given individual
feedback on all completed projects. The course is delivered
by film and theatre practitioners. Career prospects: Costume
Designer, Costume Assistant, Costume Technician, Wardrobe
Person, Make-up Artist or Make-Up Technician.
Course Content
Costume Design and Illustration
This aspect of the course deals with
visual interpretation through drawing, illustration and
presentation to enable the student to develop design ideas
and to communicate those ideas.
Costume Construction
Students are instructed in construction
techniques used for costume realisation, including
foundation garments, surface and textile decoration, fabric
sourcing. Projects include: Boned Victorian bodice: Period
corsetry: Millinery, a period costume of the student’s
choice.
Costume Appreciation
Students gain research skills by
analysing social and dress history from medieval times to
the present. Projects include field trips to galleries and
museums. In second year the student enters a researches
phase and presents a dissertation in an area of self
directed study.
Pattern Drafting
Students learn how to produce
individual patterns from a series of body measurements and
how to develop these into suitable patterns for their design
work. They are taught flat pattern cutting, draping on the
stand, historical pattern cutting and grading.
Make-Up Application and Design
Over the two years students are
introduced to the techniques of make-up for film and
theatre. Practical exercises guide students through a
variety of looks and effects, from period styles through to
current trends and how to apply prosthetics.
Wig / Hair Design and Maintenance
Students are trained in the use of
wigs, half wigs and hair extensions to achieve a variety of
hairstyles. Caring for wigs is covered as well as correct
dressing room procedure.
Metalcraft
Metal working techniques such as
enamelling, etching and soldering are used to produce 3D
objects such as jewellery and crowns.
Also covered:
Certification
Advanced Certificate FETAC Level 6
Progression and Career Prospects
Graduating students from this course have continued their
education in other colleges including Further Education
Colleges, DIADT and London College of Fashion. Those who
have entered into the profession have worked for West End
theatres, The Abbey Theatre, The Gate Theatre, The Gaiety
Theatre and Riverdance. They have worked designing costumes,
hair and make-up for many Irish theatre companies. In the
film industry graduates have worked on ‘Lord of The Rings’,
‘King Kong’, ‘King Arthur’ and ‘The Tudors’.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be at least 17 years of
age, have reached Leaving Certificate standard.
Entry is by interview and portfolio
assessment.
The portfolio should demonstrate an
ability to draw. Observational drawing with colour
application must be presented at interview. 3D work,
sketchbooks and ideas books can also be included.
The incoming student should have good
communication skills, initiative and enjoy working with
others.
