We provide lots of opportunities during your course to show off your projects, with art shows hosted in and outside the College throughout the year. Even better, you also have the chance to exhibit your project with the University of Arts London at one of their exclusive annual events.
This Way Up featured the Final Major Project work of Art & Design Diploma Level 3, the Extended Diploma in Art & Design Level 3 as well as the Foundation course students from Abingdon.
The exhibition took place within the Art & Design block, where over two floors of exhibition space were created for over fifty students to showcase their work to family, friends and the general public.
Students of The Oxfordshire Creative Academy were given just one week ...
Over 50 Art Foundation students and staff from Abingdon & Witney Colle...
The Government’s latest National Achievement Rates Tables (NARTs), rel...
The winning design for Witney's first Community Piano has been chosen ...
Abingdon & Witney College are in the running to win two national award...
Explore the latest stories, insights and press releases from across the College.
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With all the equipment you will need at your disposal, you will cover new materials, techniques and processes within art and design, as you continually gain new skills by working on multiple personal projects and industry-related briefs.
That's just the start. There are the many visits to galleries and museums too, at home and abroad, and guest speakers (including former students) who we bring in to share experiences.
We also make a big deal of making sure you're ready for anything, as sometimes it's about more than just natural talent – you need to be determined, street-smart and be ready to take setbacks if they come your way.
Our experienced tutors will be there to teach these career-ready transferrable skills, preparing you for life after college.
Pete's academic artistic pursuits began at Stroud School of Art, where he studied his Level 2, Level 3 and Foundation Diploma, before going on to complete his degree in Illustration.
He started work at what used to be Gloscat (now Gloscol) in Gloucester as Arts and Media Technician for three years. After moving to Oxford he spent two years in two different roles: a Media Technician at OCVC and at Modern Art Oxford as a Gallery Assistant.
His move to Abingdon & Witney College as Art & Media Technician came in November 2006, where he started off teaching adults oil painting during the evenings. After successfully completing his teaching qualification, he's now an Art Technician and an Hourly Paid Lecturer at our Witney campus.
"The best part about teaching can be summarised by a quote from a recent student: ''I think that I might actually be getting the hang of this...'' Enough said!
It's a constant joy to be working with talented, inspirational, and creative people. The biggest benefit I feel that students get is the ability to think differently and develop their own voice in order to progress into higher education or a career.
I have learnt a lot from my department colleagues too; the continual cycle of sharing ideas and working collaboratively keeps things fresh, interesting and makes the College an exciting place to be."
With a degree in 3D Design from Bristol University and a specialism in ceramics, Emma began her career as an artist in residence at Christchurch Cathedral School in Oxford.
A shift towards education saw her gain her PGCE at Oxford Brookes University and take up a teaching position at Radley College, before moving on to Banbury School of Art (now Banbury & Bicester College) to teach on the Foundation Art programme.
A move to Abingdon & Witney College in 1997 saw Emma heavily involved with setting up the Foundation Art course that exists today, first as a part-time Lecturer to now teaching Art & Design full-time, from Level 1 all the way up to Foundation level.
"The opportunity to work with young people at this important stage of their lives, where they are deciding their future career aspirations, is what drives me to teach.
There's a two-way satisfaction from the teaching and learning process – we hope to inspire our students, and they in turn inspire us with their creations, their development and achievements.
Every year is different, the dynamics in the department change, but we always have students staying in touch after their studies to share their successes and stories, and we often will invite some back to speak to current students.
This is the most obvious sign that our students benefit immensely from our courses and it's fantastic to see them blossom and progress to positive destinations."
Gary attended Abingdon & Witney College as a student, completing the Foundation Art & Design course before studying Illustration at Loughborough University. Soon after graduating, he worked at the College as an Art & Design technician before moving on to the newly-created Student Performance Manager role for two years.
He also worked in the Student Services department where he was responsible for organising Student Rep meetings and the annual Student Conference. For the past six years he has worked solely in Art & Design as a lecturer, teaching all levels from Level 1 to Foundation Degree and as Course Leader for Level 2 Creative Communications and Level 3 Art & Design.
"For me, the most rewarding part of the job is the end of year exhibitions when the students display the outcomes of their Final Major Project. We turn the entire art block into a gallery and showcase a huge variety of work spanning several disciplines, including photography, graphics, illustration, fashion, sculpture, painting and film/animation.
It's great to see how far each student has come over the course of the year and the Final Major Project allows them to be truly individual and play to their strengths. The overseas trips are always great fun too, and really enrich the students' cultural awareness and inform their ideas.
While our students gain a wealth of valuable practical skills and an understanding of the facilities that they may not have had access to at school, I would say that the most important things they will take away from college are the transferable skills that they will need in the real world. Our students develop teamwork, communication, professionalism and independence through their project work and these will benefit them in life wherever they end up working."
Lewis is a former student of the College, studying on the Level 3 Art & Design course at the Abingdon campus, and holds a degree in Fine Art & Printmaking from Loughborough University.
After his studies, Lewis was a practising artist for a number of years and worked as an Art Technician at Wheatley Park School to support his artistic endeavours. During his time there, he set up a printmaking studio and helped raise the profile of the school through community projects, working with local artists and the students to change opinions through art.
In 2007, Lewis joined the College as an Art Technician and is now the Curriculum Manager for Art & Design.
"When I was a student at the College, I had an amazing tutor who inspired me to tap into what I was really interested in at a time when I had no clear idea about my future plans.
What resonated with me is that one teacher can make a massive difference and now being this role, I see students who are in a similar place to where I was. My job is to recognise their potential, nurture their strengths and teach them that it's never too late to change their path.
As well as developing technical creative skills, the dialogue between the tutor and student is critical for developing soft skills. That first feedback for a student can be difficult, especially hearing criticism no matter how positive. However, this helps build resilience and understanding of one's own practice, and shows a student how their craft is more of a commodity than just a past-time or hobby."
Previous school:
Faringdon Community College
Art is my passion but I didn't know where studying it could lead to; now I understand it's so broad that you can go into everything!
The environment at the college is so open and welcoming, which allows for a lot of creativity. There's a wide variety of equipment and materials at college, and the teaching staff are amazing – it's more like a family here.
My first year FMP (final major project) was on optical illusions, looking into family and identity. My plan now is to carry on to the second year and potentially do an art degree in the future, with a gap year travelling in Asia in between.
Previous school:
Larkmead School
I loved the safe and friendly environment at the College, and I made lots of friends over the five years I was there.
I really enjoyed working on my own projects where I could explore different techniques such as illustration and animation. My Final Major Project (FMP) was also a highlight for me, as this helped me improve my skills and gain confidence.
I now have a really good qualification for the future, with my goal being to continue studying at a higher level. The College gave me a great experience and wonderful memories!
Previous school:
Henry Box School
Luke had a great experience doing his BTEC in Art & Design and his National Diploma with Abingdon & Witney College, before moving on to Swindon College & Oxford Brookes University to do a degree in "Sequential and Narrative Illustration".
After his studies, he started working part-time as an illustrator and graphic designer and was putting on exhibitions alongside his work. Someone who'd seen his work asked if he'd consider being a tattoo artist; within two years, he had become a business partner of a tattoo studio in Witney! As he now says: "I see myself as an artist that tattoos and my medium is skin."
After having such a positive experience with us, he's looking give something back, offering Abingdon & Witney College students the chance to exhibit their work at his studio.
Previous school:
Wood Green School
Abigail studied her BTEC 3 in Art & Design at the Witney campus, and quickly realised how different college was to school:
"They took everything I knew about art and smashed it, so that I started to see art in a completely new way and I loved working in different mediums.
After college I did a few general jobs like pub work and put art on the back-burner, although I was still drawing at home but there weren't many jobs in art available.
I studied for a foundation degree at Oxford Brookes and whilst in Oxford met Luke who gave me a tattoo. Luke reignited my passion for art and reminded me of what I was capable of. I'm now doing an apprenticeship at his tattoo studio which I've almost completed; soon I will become a Junior Artist and I already have my own clients."
Advertising Executive
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Part Time QCXT201P
You will be offered a broad grounding in the use of acrylics. You will cover glazing, layering, impasto painting, bold and expressive brush work. You will examine how to observe a simple still life, how to mould form through light and shade, how to u...
15th Sep 2021 - 20th Oct 2021
Wednesday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXT207P
You will be offered a broad grounding in the use of acrylics. You will cover glazing, layering, impasto painting, bold and expressive brush work. You will examine how to observe a simple still life, how to mould form through light and shade, how to u...
3rd Nov 2021 - 26th Jan 2022
Wednesday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXT206P
You will be offered a broad grounding in the use of acrylics. You will cover glazing, layering, impasto painting, bold and expressive brush work. You will examine how to observe a simple still life, how to mould form through light and shade, how to u...
2nd Feb 2022 - 29th Jun 2022
Wednesday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCAT110P
This art course will help you to draw with accuracy. Portraiture drawing will be introduced explaining the basic structure and dimensions of the human head. Students will learn the skills and techniques necessary to create convincing portrait drawing...
Part Time QCXT013P
Buttons need sewing on? Jumpers need darning, cuffs starting to fray? Come and learn how to mend these. Create wax wraps, paper plant pots, start patchwork or rag rugs. Brown paper gift wrapping ideas. Sessions on how to mend and small scale upcycle....
Part Time QCWT002P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCWT003P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCBT001P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCBT002P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCKT005P
This course is designed for those who wish to learn how to paint in the medium of watercolour. It is a practical and comprehensive course that will teach you the skills and techniques you need to paint in this beautiful and inspiring medium, whilst r...
Part Time QCKT006P
This new course is designed for those who wish to learn how to paint in the medium of watercolour. It is a practical and comprehensive course that will teach you the skills and techniques you need to paint in this beautiful and inspiring medium, whil...
23rd Apr 2022 - 23rd Apr 2022
Saturday
Art & Design
NOA Community Centre, Summertown
View course detailsPart Time QCXT109P
You shall cover basic drawing skills such as construction drawing and moulding form with light and shade. We will look at the traditional ways of applying watercolour: wet into wet, layered washes, glazes etc. We will also make experimental paintings...
2nd Feb 2022 - 29th Jun 2022
Wednesday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCAT106P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCAT109P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCXT101P
This course is designed to suit your individual needs, whether a novice or more experienced in drawing and painting. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of classical methods and contemporary approaches, whilst covering a range of art a...
Part Time QCGT106P
Discover the exciting skills of drawing and painting and create your own unique artwork. This intensive course provides the necessary information about the tools and techniques of drawing and painting and is structured to suit learners’ pace and prio...
Part Time QCGT104P
Discover the exciting skills of drawing and painting and create your own unique artwork. This intensive course provides the necessary information about the tools and techniques of drawing and painting and is structured to suit learners’ pace and prio...
Part Time QCKT108P
A chance to consider some essential principles of drawing, including scale, tone and mark making through practical exercises using pencil and charcoal. In order to avoid disappointment, it is advisable to enrol at least 2½ weeks prior to the course s...
Part Time QCKS102P
A chance to consider some essential principles of drawing, including scale, tone and mark making through practical exercises using pencil and charcoal. In order to avoid disappointment, it is advisable to enrol at least 2½ weeks prior to the course s...
Part Time QCKT103P
Drawing from Scratch C is the third part of a two year long drawing course. You can regard the course as a whole or use different terms as a stand-alone course. The course will help you discover, apply and extend your drawing skills, gain confidence ...
Part Time QCKT102P
Drawing from Scratch B is the second term of a two-year long, six-term drawing course. You can regard the course as a whole or use different terms as a stand-alone course. The course will help you discover, apply and extend your drawing skills, gain ...
Part Time QCKT302P
To introduce you to the application of mixed acrylic paint and mediums to create visual dynamics....
Part Time QCAT115P
During your observational charcoal and mixed media course we will look at experimental mark making and layering of mixed media to explore textures and surface qualities as well as atmosphere and mood....
Part Time QCRT105P
The aim is to help you to develop an individual style of working. You will explore construction, drawing, simple perspective, composition design, using colour and tone effectively, and experimental painting techniques....
Part Time QCXR603P
Enjoy creating your own unique Table Centre Piece or Christmas Wreath in Glass as well as some exciting tree decorations during this seasonal workshop. Make this Christmas special with a sparkle of glass....
Part Time QCXR136P
Korky Paul, international multi-million selling children’s book illustrator, will teach you how to draw and illustrate a double page spread of a children’s picture book as steps towards a presentation package to show prospective publishers (something...
Part Time QCRT104P
This course will cover the very basics of watercolour techniques and application - Exploring techniques such as wet into wet, layered washes, dry brushing, glazing, and wax resist. We will look at colour mixing and “palette craft”, develop observatio...
Part Time QCAT114P
We will look at a number of ink techniques including cross hatching, line and wash and more free experimental ways of working....
Part Time QCRT103P
We will look at a number of ink techniques including cross hatching, line and wash and more free experimental ways of working....
Part Time QCXT617P
Add a silver lining to your day at one of our silver jewellery classes. Learn traditional techniques to make Silver jewellery ready to wear home with pride....
3rd Nov 2021 - 26th Jan 2022
Wednesday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXT618P
Add a silver lining to your day at one of our silver jewellery classes. Learn traditional techniques to make Silver jewellery ready to wear home with pride....
2nd Feb 2022 - 29th Jun 2022
Wednesday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXR609P
Add a silver lining to your day at one of our silver jewellery workshops....
12th Mar 2022 - 12th Mar 2022
Saturday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXR608P
Add a silver lining to your day at one of our silver jewellery workshops. Learn traditional techniques to make Silver jewellery ready to wear home with pride....
13th Nov 2021 - 20th Nov 2021
Saturday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsSchool Leaver PFWN100P
This course offers you an introduction to art, design and media and will help you create a portfolio of work that will help you progress to the next level. You will explore your creative ideas through a range of different processes, such as drawing, ...
School Leaver PFAN100P
This course offers you an introduction to art, design and media and will help you create a portfolio of work that will help you progress to the next level. You will explore your creative ideas through a range of different processes, such as drawing, ...
School Leaver PFAH112P
This exciting one-year course will offer you the chance to learn about a variety of art, craft and design disciplines. You will explore painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, digitals arts and a range of 2D and 3D techniques. You will be able t...
School Leaver PFWH108P
This exciting one-year course will offer you the chance to learn about a variety of art, craft and design disciplines. You will explore painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, digitals arts and a range of 2D and 3D techniques. You will be able t...
School Leaver PFWH106P
This exciting course will enable to you cover a wide range of art and design disciplines to determine your strengths and aspirations for a career in the visual arts. You will experience an exciting and in-depth introduction to the creative industries...
School Leaver PFAH104P
This exciting course will enable to you cover a wide range of art and design disciplines to determine your strengths and aspirations for a career in the visual arts. You will experience an exciting and in-depth introduction to the creative industries...
School Leaver PFAM200P
The primary purpose of this unique course is to enable you to identify your strengths and aptitudes so that you can select and gain acceptance on to a specialist degree course suited to your needs and career plans. You will explore a whole range of a...
Part Time QCKT106P
An introduction to drawing the human form from a model.In order to avoid disappointment, it is advisable to enrol at least 2½ weeks prior to the course starting. We will confirm course information two weeks prior to the start date....
Part Time QCXR119P
Drawing in the Museum! A wonderful way to get to know the exhibits and create your own unique art samples! Museum drawing is a practical course that will ensure you can complete it with more sophisticated artistic skills and a deeper understanding an...
Part Time QCXT120P
Drawing in the Museum! A wonderful way to get to know the exhibits and create your own unique art samples! Museum drawing is a practical course that will ensure you can complete it with more sophisticated artistic skills and a deeper understanding an...
Part Time QCXT107P
Museum drawing is a practical course that will ensure you can complete it with more sophisticated artistic skills and a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Ashmolean museum’s wide-ranging collection. The focus will be on the basics of how to...
Part Time QCXR124P
Drawing in the Museum! A wonderful way to get to know the exhibits and create your own unique art samples! Museum drawing is a practical course that will ensure you can complete it with more sophisticated artistic skills and a deeper understanding an...
Part Time QCAT203P
A look at oil painting through the expression of Summer landscapes and colours....
Part Time QCAT202P
A look at colour theory, colour mixing and “palette craft' covering the topic of Spring...
Part Time QCXT001P
We will focus on constructing the head and look at ways to accurately describe and place the features. There will also be a consideration of how to construct the whole body and describe the folds and creases found in clothing. Learners will leave wit...
18th Jun 2022 - 18th Jun 2022
Saturday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXT106P
This course will teach people with some or no experience the basic proportions and ratios for drawing a full face from different angles, and assist the more experienced learners to develop their skill and competence in drawing using live models.This ...
Part Time QCXT105P
This course will teach less experienced drawers the basic proportions and ratios for drawing a full face from different angles, and assist the more experienced learners to develop their skill and competence in drawing using live models.This carefully...
Part Time QCAT006P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT018P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT502P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT014P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT501P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT017P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT012P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT009P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT021P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT015P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT011P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT003P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT506P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAT005P
A pottery course in which you will learn a wide range of ceramic processes in a well-equipped studio taught by one of our highly skilled Ceramic Artists. You will be producing a body of work showing development of skills and ideas in a relaxed and fr...
Part Time QCAR612P
Explore an engaging variety of creative media and artistic approaches. Work on both relief and intaglio printing techniques. Through practical exercises and constructive support, develop your technical skills and take your creativity further. This in...
Part Time QCAR613P
Explore an engaging variety of creative media and artistic approaches. Work on both relief and intaglio printing techniques. Through practical exercises and constructive support, develop your technical skills and take your creativity further. This in...
Part Time QCXT002P
You will be introduced to the secrets of this exquisite art form, working with an artist who specialises in silk painting. Create your own unique artwork....
13th Nov 2021 - 13th Nov 2021
Saturday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCXR605P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCXR604P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCXT612P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCXT608P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCXT611P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCXT609P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCXR606P
Learn the technique involved in making a stained-glass lead panel for the house and the garden or learn the copper foil technique. Use your design or one the Tutor provides, your choice. There will be design books for you to use in the session for id...
Part Time QCAT107P
Still life painting is a wonderful means by which to explore and develop the fundamentals of drawing and painting. This practical course provides a very good entry into still life painting. Students will be encouraged to look at things with a fresh e...
Part Time QCXR113P
We will create a landscape with depth and atmosphere. To achieve this, there will be stage by stage demonstrations on the various ways of applying watercolour, such as wet into wet and building up layered washes. We will also look at simple ways of u...
12th Mar 2022 - 12th Mar 2022
Saturday
Art & Design
Oxford Adult Learning Cowley
View course detailsPart Time QCRT106P
During your course we will explore all basic techniques for applying watercolour, from wet into wet, layered washes, dry brushing, glazing, and wax resist. - We will look at colour mixing and “palette craft”, look at ways of creating space and depth ...
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