Out of form

The fear of failure among fine art students, lamented by Joanne Lee ("Why I", April 2), may be a consequence of the comparative formlessness of their fine art courses.

Is there any other degree regime less specific in its objectives, curriculum or criteria yet more certain in its judgements? The very openness of the fine art course fosters insecurity and results, paradoxically, in the conformity of so many final degree shows.

Paul Shakeshaft
Anglia Polytechnic University