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Home Department of Art and Design Programs Printmaking and Photography

Printmaking and Photography

Art- Printmaking and Photography, M.F.A.

Overview

In the printmaking and photography concentration, students focus on advancing their technical skills, conceptual understanding, and creative expression within the fields of photography and printmaking. The program offers a unique combination of both media, allowing students to explore the intersections, connections, and potential synergies between printmaking and photography.

Technical proficiency is a central aspect of the program. Students refine their knowledge and skills in photography techniques such as camera operation, lighting, composition, and post-processing. They also delve into advanced printmaking techniques including etching, lithography, screenprinting, or digital printmaking methods. By mastering the technical aspects of both media, students can expand their creative possibilities and effectively communicate their artistic ideas.

Conceptual development and artistic exploration are equally emphasized. Students are encouraged to develop a strong conceptual framework and articulate their artistic vision within printmaking and photography. They explore various themes, narratives, and aesthetic concepts, considering how each medium can contribute to their expressive intent. They engage in critical analysis and develop a cohesive body of work that demonstrates a deep understanding of the relationship between printmaking and photography.

The program incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to integrate printmaking and photography with other media or artistic practices. They explore mixed-media techniques, installation, or explore the digital realm, expanding their creative possibilities and pushing the boundaries of traditional printmaking and photography practices.

Critical discourse and theoretical studies are integrated into the program. Students engage in critical analysis of contemporary and historical photography and printmaking practices, exploring theoretical frameworks and concepts that inform their artistic practice. They study the socio-cultural contexts, aesthetics, and critical discourses relevant to photography and printmaking, developing a nuanced understanding of the fields.

Throughout the program, students receive faculty mentorship, critiques, and guidance to further develop their artistic vision, refine technical skills, and deepen conceptual understanding. They have opportunities to exhibit their work in gallery settings, participate in juried exhibitions, or engage with visiting artists and scholars who provide valuable insights and feedback.

The program culminates in a thesis, successful oral defense and exhibition that showcases students' artistic growth, technical proficiency, and conceptual development within the fields of printmaking and photography. This exhibition serves as a platform to launch their professional careers as practicing artists or pursue further studies in printmaking and photography.

Curriculum, Concentration and Application Requirements

Please review the official academic catalog for comprehensive information on requirements.

Graduate Assistantships

Competitive graduate assistantships offer a variety of opportunities to develop teaching and other professional experience through working with a member of the Department of Art and Design faculty or staff. Graduate assistantships provide valuable support for the department both inside and outside of the classroom.

Facilities

ACB Room 152, 798 SQ FT

  • 1 Paper Cutter 
  • 1 EPSON DS-5000 Scanner 
  • 1 EPSON V750 PRO Scanner 
  • 1 CANON PRO 1000 Printer 
  • 1 CANON PRO 2100 Printer 
  • 2 CANON iPF8400 Printer 
  • 1 NEC TV 80” (OLD MODEL) 
  • 21 Macs  

ACB Room 312, 1547 SQ FT

  • 1 MSP 3140 Exposure Unit 40 x 50in 
  • 1 Sgreen Washout Booth 72” w/Backlit System (2 cold & 1 hot water sprayers) 
  • 1 Sgreen Filtration System 
  • 1 X-ACTO Guillotine 30x30
  • 1 Adjustable Screen Drying Racks 
  • 1 Print Drying Rack 32x48
  • 1 Print Drying Rack 25x35 
  • 1 SUNJOE 2030 MAX Pressure Washer 
  • 1 LED Light Box 24x36
  • 1 Mac (OLD MODEL) 
  • 1 SHARP AQUOS TV 80 (OLD MODEL) 
  • 1 Glass Printing Table with 2 hinge clamps 
  • 1 Medium Utility Sink 24x24 (hot & cold faucet) 
  • 1 Small Utility Sink 17x18 (hot & cold faucet) 
  • 1 ZURN Z1180 Solid Interceptor 
  • 1 Emergency Wash Station 
  • 2 Vents 
  • 2 Cutting Mats 
  • 8 Movable Printing Boards 

ACB Room 312A, 157 SQ FT

  • 1 Baselayr V3648 LED Exposure Unit 36x48 
  • 1 Adjustable Screen Drying Racks 

ACB ROOM 412, 1570 SQ FT

  • 1 Takach 4072 Floor Model Etching Press 40x72 
  • 1 Conrad E24 Standard Model Tabletop Etching Press with Steel bedplate 24x48 
  • 1 Charles Brand Floor Model Etching Press 18x36 
  • 1 Takach 3460 Floor Model Lithography Press 34x60 
  • 1 Charles Brand Floor Model Lithography Press 24x48 
  • 1 Stone Lifter 
  • 1 Porta-Trace Stainless Steel LED Light Box 24x36 
  • 1 Polypropylene Wash Station (Acid Resistant) 48x23 (cold & hot water faucet and sprayers) 
  • 1 GT2702 Polyethylene Grease Interceptor 
  • 1 Lithography Sink 67x34 (2 cold & 1 hot water sprayers) 
  • 1 ZURN Z1181 Solid Interceptor 
  • 1 Medium Utility Sink 24x24 (cold & hot water faucet) 
  • 1 ZURN Z1180 Solid Interceptor 
  • 1 Hand washing Sink (cold & hot water faucet) 
  • 1 Paper Bath 33x51 
  • 1 Emergency Wash Station 
  • 1 Vent 
  • 1 Paper Cutter (OUT OF ORDER) 
  • 1 Acid Safety Cabinet 
  • 2 Hot Plates 18x24 
  • 2 Z*Acryl Vertical Etching Tanks 18x24 
  • 2 Ventilated Counters 
  • 2 Cutting Mats 
  • 2 Flammable Safety Cabinets 

ACB ROOM 412A, 169 SQ FT

  • 1 Mac (OLD MODEL) 
  • 1 EPSON Photo R2880 
  • 1 EPSON Perfection V850 Pro Scanner