Contemporary curatorial practice is inherently dynamic, multi-disciplinary, and audience-focused—and includes elements of writing, research, fieldwork, teamwork, design, hands-on production, community engagement, and public programming.

With support from the director of the M.F.A. in Curatorial Practice and the Office of Graduate Studies, students pursuing the Emphasis will complete twelve (12) credits of approved graduate-level coursework and successfully create and document a final project.

Goals

• Students will analyze exhibitions, understanding how they can alter perception, energize the community, and keep pace with culture.
• Students will consider the impact of different exhibition strategies and multi-disciplinary work.
• Students will demonstrate critical thinking by synthesizing information from a variety of sources into effectively organized exhibitions, writing, and presentations
• Students will support their peers and work well in teams.
• Students will relate their work to their own interests.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Synthesize information from multiple sources into exhibitions and writing.
• Communicate with clarity through public presentation.
• Compose an expansive view of the field of curatorial practice by evaluating contemporary and historical exhibitions.
• Create accessible exhibitions and programs.
• Work well in teams to create exhibitions and related materials.

Eligibility

The Graduate Emphasis in Curatorial Practice is available to students in the following programs:

• Teaching (MAT)
• Filmmaking (MFA)
• Graphic Design (MFA)
• Illustration Practice (MFA)
• LeRoy E. Hoffberger School of Painting (MFA)
• Mount Royal School of Art (MFA)
• Photography + Media & Society (MFA)
• Rinehart School of Sculpture (MFA)

Students in other programs who are interested in the emphasis should contact the Graduate Enrollment Advisor (currently Ken Dippong, kdippong@mica.edu), the director of the MFA for Curatorial Practice and/or the Office of Graduate Studies.