ART GRADUATE PROGRAM - Studio Art Emphasis (MA or MFA)
MFA Studio & Visual Communication General Student Learning Objectives (SLO):
- Students will be able to recognize art as a significant form of expression and communication that can be appreciated by studying the meaning of art and what it is to be an artist.
- Students will be able to experience and value visual thinking and creative problem solving in art, as well as recognize the concurrent importance of perception, experimentation, innovation and critical thinking.
- Students will be able to understand the history and traditions of art and their relevance to social and community concerns as well as the art of different cultures.
CERAMICS
While promoting growth in conceptual, technical and aesthetic approaches, the Ceramics area of concentration offers instruction that includes a wide base of processes and techniques designed to encourage individual expression. The program aims to develop students who are aware of contemporary standards to produce challenging work.
PAINTING
This area of concentration focuses on essential painting skills in various media. Assignments, lectures, and critiques are designed to introduce and elaborate upon concepts and issues that address timeless historical and contemporary trends. Ultimately, each student will be guided in the development of his/her own individual artistic style and direction.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Photography concentration falls under both the Visual Communication (VC) and Studio options in the graduate program. While both options in Photography explore conceptual, technical, and theoretical applications, in VC Photography may have a technology-based, client-driven, commercial focus. In the Studio option, students are encouraged to develop a consistent studio practice and work toward exhibition. However, both options emphasize effective communication and in-depth exploration, and a fluid dialogue between both fine art and commercial applications is emphasized throughout the program. Graduate students may choose coursework and projects toward earning the graduate degree to fit theiar conceptual and professional pursuits.
PRINTMAKING
California State University, Northridge offers undergraduate and graduate courses covering traditional, contemporary and non-toxic approaches to the fine art print. The Print Shop has relief, intaglio and lithography facilities. At the graduate level, students achieve a high level of expertise in printmaking while developing as individual professional artists.
PUBLIC ART
Courses in this area of concentration involve the development and completion of art forms in the public realm, ranging from large-scale works to objects created as multiples or graphic solutions such as printed matter. Classes include demonstrations, field trips, guest speakers and proposal development. Creation of permanent or semi-permanent projects are encouraged and assisted. Emphasis is also placed on public art studies and service learning forums.
SCULPTURE
The development of conceptual tools and technical skills in three-dimensional art form is the focus of the Sculpture program. Conceptual tools include the formal study of spatial relationships as well as the context and history of 3-D art objects and their settings. Technical skills range from the traditional modeling, casting, joining, and welding techniques and the use of newer technologies (computer).
VIDEO/DIGITAL ART
In this area of concentration, you'll refine your artistic vision while being challenged by new ideas and perspectives. Students in the Digital/Video MA program are highly self-directed and work on their own experimental interactive and digital video art projects. Students without a background in digital/art technology typically take several undergraduate courses at Northridge to develop their skills before beginning their graduate studies.