In August 2011 I enrolled in Textiles 1: A Creative Approach in the Open College of the Arts. If I work through all the required courses it could, in time, be part of a BA Hons Textiles degree. I prefer to focus on one step at a time.
Around 19 months later, in March 2013 I finished the final assignment in A Creative Approach, and I passed in the July assessment.
Also in March 2013 I enrolled in my next course – Understanding Art 1: Western Art. Another 19 months and after a race to finish I submitted for the November 2014 assessment and was super-pleased with my result.
While waiting for the assessment I enrolled in my final Level 1 course – Textiles 1: Exploring Ideas, with the aim of shaving the work time down to 17 months. Not long after a new Level 1 textiles course was announced which seemed to fit my interests slightly better and OCA allowed me to transfer.
I commenced Textiles 1: Mixed Media for Textiles in March 2015. Work continues, aiming towards July 2016 assessment.
Keeping a learning log is a requirement in all the OCA courses, and my existing blog has expanded to accommodate that. For my own ongoing learning I prefer the continuity of a single blog.
Some links to assist navigation:
Textiles 1: A Creative Approach
Commenced August 2011. Assignment work completed March 2013. Passed assessment July 2013.
Click here for navigation page.
Understanding Art 1: Western Art
Commenced March 2013. Assignment work completed October 2014.
Click here for navigation page.
Textiles 1: Exploring Ideas
Commenced November 2014. Discontinued December 2014.
Click here for navigation page.
Textiles 1: Mixed Media for Textiles
Commenced March 2015.
Click here for navigation page.
Fibres of Being 
Judy,
I think you have been in contact with Liz Barraclough regarding the study visit to the Whitworth exhibition. If you would like me to send you the educators’ resource pack and the briefing notes for the visit, I am happy to do so if you let me have your email address.
Kind regards,
Liz Smith
I’ve been lurking for a few days, enjoying your journey through the Textiles 1 class. I am considering entering the program myself. I can’t find a way to send you an email privately, but I wanted to tell you how helpful your blog is, and how inspiring. I think the work you are showing here is wonderful. I really appreciate seeing your process in such detail. And I also appreciate your blog roll for the work of other students! Thank you so much.
Patricia in British Columbia, Canada
Thank you Patricia!
I love feeling part of a community, sharing and learning from each other.
Judy