Mark Gaynor, NAFAE Steering Group, Southampton Solent

Institution and title:	Southampton Solent University Head of School School of Visual & Interactive Art
NAFAE position:	Steering Group Member
NAFAE duties:	Attending Steering Group meetings (approx 2hrs, 2-3 times pa) Contribution to policy/strategy discussions.
C.V:	Mark Gaynor's C.V

Mark, why is NAFAE important to FE and HE Art providers?

One of the prime benefits of NAFAE is how it provides a network for opportunities, innovations, seeking advice and best practice. NAFAE is also the subject specific forum for discussion of issues particular to the subject/discipline and as such it is the representative body for advocacy and consultation with national organizations (eg QAA, subject benchmarking, HEA etc)

With a full and active membership NAFAE can be the authoritative voice for Fine Art education at all levels in the absence of a ‘professional body’ for professional practice

Mark, what important issues are facing Art over the next 5 years?

How can the traditions of Fine Art maintain currency and importance in institutions where innovation and novelty have become highly valued?
How will the content of new special Diplomas impact upon HE, especially the first year experience?
How important is the Foundation year and will this persist as the demography shifts?
What are the opportunities and pit-falls of integrating curriculum development with models from the European Higher Education Area (EHEA)?
Is teaching in FE/HE any longer a viable support mechanism for artists to continue professional practice?

Mark, what else are you involved in?

Member of Southampton Visual Art Forum (SVAF) a body representing artists and organizations to local and regional bodies (eg City Council)
Group member of regional Life-long Learning Network (LLN). SSU leads the regional project in Creative Industries.
Participant in Southampton City Council’s Creative Industries Forum (CIF), currently organized by the Economic Development Dept.
Recently part of SCC’s Creative Industries Project funded by SEEDA to establish artists’ studios (20) in Southampton.