MAJOR SPOTLIGHT: Visual Arts
If you are interested in pursuing a career in visual arts, attending college can be an important step in achieving your goals. However, with so many different programs and degrees to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we'll take a look at the two main types of visual arts degrees: the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Both degrees offer unique benefits, and it's important to understand the differences between them to determine which one is the best fit for your interests and goals.
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts degree in visual arts is a liberal arts degree that provides a broad-based education in the arts. This type of program typically covers a wide range of subjects, including studio art, art history, and art criticism. The focus of a BA in visual arts is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the visual arts, rather than just the technical skills required to produce art.
Some of the top colleges and universities known for their BA programs in visual arts include:
Harvard University
Brown University
Wellesley College
Swarthmore College
Bowdoin College
BA programs in visual arts are ideal for students who are interested in pursuing careers in areas such as art education, curation, or art criticism. These programs typically offer courses in art history, art criticism, and studio art, as well as opportunities for students to engage in independent research and to participate in exhibitions and shows.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree is a more specialized degree that focuses specifically on the studio arts. This type of program is designed to provide students with the technical skills and training they need to become professional artists. BFA programs in visual arts are typically more intensive and require a greater commitment of time and energy than BA programs.
Some of the top colleges and universities known for their BFA programs in visual arts include:
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
Parsons School of Design
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
BFA programs typically include a strong emphasis on studio art, with courses in areas such as drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. Students in BFA programs are also typically required to complete a thesis project in their final year, which provides them with the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of their chosen media and to showcase their body of work to potential employers or graduate schools.
In addition to studio art courses, BFA programs in visual arts may also include courses in art history, but the focus is on developing technical skills and creating a portfolio of work. This type of program is ideal for students who are interested in pursuing a career as a professional artist or in a related field, such as graphic design or illustration.
Preparing for College & National Portfolio Day
To prepare for a career in visual arts, it's important to start building your portfolio as early as possible. Participating in local art competitions, taking art classes, and visiting art museums are all great ways to start. Another great opportunity to showcase your work is through National Portfolio Day.
National Portfolio Day is an event for high school students interested in pursuing a career in the visual arts. It is an opportunity for students to meet with representatives from art schools and have their portfolios reviewed. This is a great way for students to get a feel for what it's like to attend art school and to receive constructive feedback on their work.
During National Portfolio Day, students will have the chance to talk with art school representatives, who will be able to answer questions about their programs, the application process, and what life is like as a student. Additionally, students will be able to see examples of work by current art school students and graduates, which can help them to get a sense of the types of projects they may be working on if they attend art school.
National Portfolio Day is typically held at different locations across the country, and it's a great way for students to connect with art schools and get a sense of which programs might be the best fit for their interests and goals. It is important to note that National Portfolio Day is not a requirement for admission to art school, but it is a great opportunity for students to get started on their college search and to start thinking about what they want from their college experience.
It's also important to consider what type of degree you want to pursue and which schools are best suited to your needs. When selecting a school, consider factors such as location, size, and resources, as well as the specific strengths of each program.
What to Expect in College
In college, you will be studying a variety of subjects related to visual arts, including studio art, art history, and art criticism. You'll have opportunities to work with different media, such as painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture. You'll also be expected to take studio art courses, as well as courses in art history and art criticism. In addition, you may also be required to participate in critique sessions, where you and your classmates will receive constructive feedback on your work from your instructors. You may also have opportunities to participate in exhibitions and shows, both on and off campus.
Careers in Visual Arts
A degree in visual arts can open up a wide range of career opportunities, including roles in the fine arts, design, and media. Some of the most common career paths for graduates with a degree in visual arts include:
Fine Artist: Fine artists create original works of art, such as paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces. They may work in a variety of styles and mediums, and may sell their work through galleries, exhibitions, or directly to collectors.
Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They work on projects such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.
Illustrator: Illustrators create images for a variety of purposes, including books, magazines, advertisements, and product packaging. They may work in traditional mediums, such as pencil or watercolor, or use digital tools like Adobe Illustrator.
Art Director: Art directors oversee the visual style and creative content of media projects, such as magazines, advertisements, and television shows. They work closely with photographers, designers, and other creative professionals to bring their visions to life.
Museum Curator: Museum curators are responsible for acquiring, cataloging, and displaying works of art in museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions. They may also develop exhibitions, conduct research, and write about the art they collect.
Art Teacher: Art teachers provide instruction in a variety of visual arts techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. They may teach in schools, community centers, or colleges, and may also work as freelance instructors or conduct workshops.
Each of these careers has its own unique demands and rewards, and it's important for students to consider their personal interests, skills, and career goals when choosing a profession in the visual arts. For example, fine artists and illustrators may work as freelance artists, while graphic designers and art directors typically work in offices or design studios. Museum curators and art teachers may work in museums, schools, or other institutions, and may have more structured work schedules.
Ultimately, the visual arts offer a diverse range of career opportunities, and graduates with a degree in this field can look forward to fulfilling and rewarding careers in a variety of creative and cultural fields.
Final Thoughts
Attending college for visual arts can be a great way to build your skills, develop your portfolio, and prepare for a successful career in the field. Whether you choose a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, you'll have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and to hone your skills in a supportive and challenging environment. With hard work and dedication, you'll be well on your way to achieving your goals of studying the visual arts and pursuing the career of your dreams.