The art school has had a fundamental effect on society internationally, influencing how the creative arts are represented and perceived. At a time that funding in the UK is placing arts education in crisis, this is the first book of its kind to investigate the concept of the 'art school' and its social impact and legacy. It highlights how the physical studios and workshops, designed for learning, teaching and making, influence and interact with the curriculum, creativity and practice. Beautifully illustrated, with both archival and contemporary photographs, many taken by the authors, this book celebrates the spaces dedicated to learning and teaching creative disciplines. Exploring a drastically shifting landscape in higher education, it celebrates the crucial relationship between the creative working spaces and the development of creative minds. A timely reflection on the current social and political climate, this book emphasises the significant role that the art school has to play in society, developing thriving creative industries and a wider culture of the arts.

Featured art schools include: