Comparative study of higher education fine art in UK and Spain: before and after Bologna

This is a report on and consideration of, the evolution of fine art studies over the last 20 years, within the discipline itself and also in connection with UK and Spanish higher education provision. Statistical data from the UK and Spain concerning fine art higher education in the academic years 2003-4 and 2013-14 will be compared. This data will be considered in relation to the content of a series of interviews with experienced lecturers in fine art undertaken at Universidad Complutense, Madrid, and Coventry School of Art & Design, UK and contextualised through a discussion of the impact of and governmental initiatives in both countries. The paper will identify key shifts and trends in the provision of fine art at degree level during the last 20 years, and the challenges that face those teaching fine art within the university sector in 2 different and distinctive European countries.