Tom Hudson. A study of his vision for art education

This research project investigates the pedagogy of Tom Hudson and his vision for art education. A critical overview of the relationship between Hudson’s pedagogical theory and practice is made, as well as a review of the influences and contexts that shaped the development of his ideas. Having played a significant role in the formation and progress of the Basic Design Movement, Hudson’s practice and ideas are considered and compared with respect to this period and the work of other protagonists, namely Harry Thubron, Victor Pasmore and Richard Hamilton. Hudson’s development of what essentially emerged from this has been investigated, providing an extensive review of what became known as the Foundation course through to Hudson’s retirement in 1987.

Contemporary practices have also been considered and observed in order to gain an understanding of current debates and the place of Hudson’s pedagogical views within these. Familiar elements in his writing show that his ideas have relevance to current concerns and practices. Twenty-five years later we are still working to prove that ‘creative activity is more than a mere cultural frill’ (Hudson, 1979, BH/TH/PL/196, p. 2).

The study includes a consideration of the archive as a theoretical framework for the artist educator’s research. A substantial amount of primary material for this research has been found within the National Arts Education Archive (NAEA@ysp), a valuable resource with much to offer the art and design educationalist, student or researcher.