A prototype is an early sample, model, or release of an artefact built to test a concept or process or to act as a thing to be replicated or learned from. 'Prototyping' refers to a group of analogue and digital techniques that allow the fabrication of such scale model.

Computers and digital technology allow us to work within a virtual space. Three-dimensional software allows us to play with form and space without dealing with the consequences or natural properties of the actual form in an actual space. The visual artist may explore and expand their creative practice into this virtual world and by harnessing its advantages create new forms and new spaces.

This course will introduce students to a variety of prototyping techniques, starting from the traditional analogue to contemporary digital practices. Students will initially learn to build basic models from materials such as cardboard, wood and acrylic. After this they will be exposed to basic 3D software to create suitable models for production, and then learn how to produce their initially virtual ideas via computer-controlled machinery.

This course is project based and will focus on technical demonstration and a continuous studio practice to inspire in the students the abilities to think fluidly about how ideas can be filtered through prototyping. They will then take on more complex projects based on their ability to use the software. This course is designed to show what the prototyping may do to extend the students' creativity into alternative mediums and processes. The core objective of this course is to give students an ability to play with such techniques so as to expand their creative output in whatever creative area they may choose to practice in later.