Ceramic Arts, MFA

Program Director: Chaz Martinsen; martinsen@hood.edu; 301-696-3526 

The Master of Fine Arts in Ceramic Arts offers comprehensive research in the ceramic arts, and provides academic preparation for matriculating students pursuing professional careers in personal artistic exploration, arts instruction at all levels, community arts programs and museum positions. Creation of ceramic art is a multidisciplinary confluence of science and art. The production of three-dimensional works of art in the ceramic medium is a continuing exercise in critically assessing the results of a complex series of deliberate experiments culminating in an aesthetic judgment, documentation and exhibition. The MFA degree program will ground students in the scientific requirements of ceramic arts and develop critical understanding of the aesthetics involved in exploring the third dimension. Innovative experiential process is the basis of the Hood College ceramic arts program history and the major thrust behind the curriculum.

Objectives:

• The student will gain a broad knowledge base of a variety of studio art media, develop technical skills, gain an awareness of historical movements and comprehend universal aesthetic concepts.
• The student will develop the ability to observe, cultivating analytical and creative thinking skills.
• The student will develop a process for articulating aesthetic ideas and the ability to communicate their personal aesthetic intentions visually in their art work, verbally, and in the written word.
• The student will develop a critical understanding of art, aesthetics and cultural education
• The student will gain a sense of purpose and responsibility for the role an artist plays in society and how an artist effects societal change.
• The student will develop the ability to analyze formal design issues both literally and conceptually.
• The student will gain the ability to seek the challenge of higher learning environments, to become confident artists, intellectually sound risk takers, career oriented professionals and ultimately empowered citizens meeting the challenges of today’s society.

Application Requirements:

Candidates for the MFA program must have earned a baccalaureate degree, B.A. or BFA as a studio arts major. To be considered for admission to the MFA program, students must meet the admission requirements of the Hood College Graduate School. Interested parties must submit a completed application to the Hood College Graduate School as well as submitting unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended (official transcripts are required for enrollment). All applicants should submit a portfolio of 20 images of personal work in a PDF document along with an image list for the body of work; an artist statement;  a résumé/cv; an essay (no more than 500 words) discussing how the MFA relates to previous experience, current direction, career and academic goals; and two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s recent work. An interview and portfolio review with the director of the MFA in Ceramic Arts is also required.

The program allows students to pursue a terminal degree for an artist, the Master of Fine Arts in Ceramic Arts.

Students with an undergraduate degree in an area other than ceramic arts who have considerable life experience and skill in the ceramic arts may apply. Students with strong current skills will be encouraged to select courses that will expand their knowledge of the ceramic arts.

For additional admission information, see Graduate Admission.