Catalonia PAU Artistic Drawing II

Proves d'Accés a la Universitat (PAU) - Dibuix Artístic II (Catalonia)

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About this exam

Dibuix Artístic II is the optional second-year artistic drawing subject in the Catalan university entrance pathway (Proves d'Accés a la Universitat). It is taken by students coming from the arts baccalaureate who want a drawing-based subject in their PAU phase, usually because they intend to apply to fine arts, design, architecture or conservation programmes where a portfolio and visual training matter. The paper mixes making and thinking: candidates produce practical drawing work in response to a proposed theme or reference, and answer written questions on visual language, composition, colour, perception and the analysis of works. Because the practical part is judged on decisions rather than recall, the strongest preparation is steady studio practice - timed drawings from observation, studies of volume and space, and experiments with line, value and colour - combined with structured written analysis of images and of the modern and contemporary drawing references in the syllabus. Always confirm the current structure, options and logistics in the official call issued by the Generalitat, since these change between years. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any official body.

What you'll study

Common questions

About Catalonia PAU Artistic Drawing II preparation

What does the exam actually consist of?

The paper is in two parts. Part A is practical: you draw on the answer sheet from a proposed theme or reference, using the medium the call allows. Part B is written: questions on visual language, composition, colour, perception and analysis of images or works. Candidates normally choose among the options offered in each part, subject to that year's instructions.

How long is the exam?

Duration is set in the official call for each year and is not fixed here. Check the current call and the calendar published by the Generalitat's university access portal before planning your timing strategy, and rehearse full papers under that exact limit.

How hard is it to do well?

The written part rewards precise vocabulary and structured analysis, which are learnable. The practical part is where candidates separate: weak spatial construction, timid value ranges and unresolved compositions cost marks even when the drawing looks tidy. Sustained timed practice from observation is what moves a grade.

Can I retake it if I do badly?

Retake and re-sit rules depend on the current regulations and on your enrolment situation, so they are not stated here. Consult the official PAU information published by the Generalitat for the call you are sitting, and speak to your school's coordinator, who handles registrations and can confirm what applies to you.

What score do I need to pass?

No fixed figure is given here because the requirement is defined by the official call and by how the subject counts towards your admission mark. The competent body publishes the current criteria. Ask your centre's coordinator to explain how the subject grade combines with your other PAU results.

In what order should I study the syllabus?

Start with observation and construction of form, since everything else depends on it. Then work on composition and framing, then value and line control, then colour. Add image analysis and the prescribed references in parallel, writing short analyses weekly, and finish with full timed papers that combine a practical exercise and written answers.

What are the most common ways candidates lose marks?

Drawing from memory instead of observation, poor placement on the sheet, flat or muddy values, colour used decoratively rather than structurally, and written answers that describe subject matter instead of analysing form, composition and visual language. Running out of time because the composition was not planned before starting is also frequent.

What materials should I practise with?

Use the media the call permits and become fluent in at least two: graphite for value and construction, and a colour medium such as coloured pencil, pastel or gouache. Practise on the paper format you will actually be given, so your scale, pressure and drying time are already calibrated on exam day.

Does this page come from the official organisers?

No. This is independent study material written for candidates searching for the exam. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or produced by the Generalitat or any university. For authoritative rules on structure, timing, fees and scoring, always rely on the official call and your school's PAU coordinator.